Arsenal Women secured a commanding 3-1 victory over Manchester United Women in a match that took place on Saturday, 17th February 2024. The game, held at the Emirates Stadium, not only showcased Arsenal’s dominance on the field but also set a new FA Women’s Super League (WSL) attendance record with 60,160 spectators. 

The match kicked-off nervously for the Arsenal Women though, as a too short backpass meant that d’Angelo came out of her goal and hit the ball, but also definately hit Nikita Parris. However, the referee played on, with the Manchester United players and staff in disbelief. Literally a few seconds later, Geyse passed Laia Codina and the latter was forced to hold-on to her shirt, but once again the referee  held her cards in her pocket. 

After the early pressure from Manchester United, Arsenal started to get a grip on the game which resulted in an own goal by Manchester United following a corner from Katie McCabe. This goal set the tone for Arsenal’s dominance during the game. Arsenal time and time found space behind Manchester United’s wing backs, which resulted in both Blundell and Evans being booked by the 34th minute. Straight after, Cloe Lacasse extended Arsenal’s lead in the 35th minute with a header, from an attempted clearance of Katie Zelem. Just before the half-time whistle Arsenal was awared a penalty, as a bad first touch from Beth Mead, saw Gemma Evans fly in for a tackle, which saw her tripping up Mead. Evans was lucky to escape a second yellow card, however, captain Kim Little didn’t make a mistake and fired Arsenal to a 3-0 lead. 

 The second half strangely was played predominantly in Manchester United’s half. Mary Earps showed why she is still one of the best goalkeepers in the world, with some breathtaking stops, while Mead hit the post twice. Besides, Lia Wälti once again showed why she is one of the best holding midfielders in the WSL and in the world. She managed to keep Ella Toone out of the game completely, hence Manchester United struggled to play through the middle. Earlier in the season Wälti also managed to keep Lauren James out of the game completely, which is an incredible achievement as it allows Arsenal to keep control, while also decreasing the strenght of their opponents. While Arsenal looked to gain a clean-sheet in an absolute top game, Lucia Garcia managed to score a consolation goal for Manchester United deep into stoppage time. 

The victory moves Arsenal within three points of WSL leaders Chelsea, intensifying the title race and highlighting their status as serious contenders. Manchester United, on the other hand, faced their third defeat in five matches, complicating their pursuit of a European qualificiation spot.