London, Sketsa.id – Manchester United pulled off a stunning late victory against Premier League leaders Arsenal, sealing a dramatic 3-2 win at the Emirates Stadium in the 2025/2026 season. The match, held on January 25, 2026, saw Matheus Cunha emerge as the hero for the Red Devils with a sublime match-winning goal in the dying minutes.
Arsenal, who entered the fixture as table-toppers, started dominantly and took the lead in the 29th minute. A defensive mishap forced Lisandro Martínez into an own goal following intense pressure from Jurriën Timber. However, United responded swiftly. Just eight minutes later, Bryan Mbeumo capitalized on a mistake by Martín Zubimendi to round goalkeeper David Raya and slot home the equalizer.
United came out stronger after halftime. Patrick Chinazaekpere Dorgu put the visitors ahead in the 50th minute with a fierce strike that rattled the crossbar before finding the net. The goal piled pressure on Arsenal, prompting manager Mikel Arteta to make a quadruple substitution in the 58th minute in search of a comeback.
The climax of the match arrived in the final stages. Arsenal leveled the score at 2–2 in the 84th minute when Mikel Merino nodded home from a Bukayo Saka corner. However, just three minutes later, substitute Matheus Cunha curled a magnificent effort from outside the box past Raya to seal a memorable victory for United, ending Arsenal’s unbeaten home record this season.
Manchester United manager Michael Carrick praised Cunha’s professionalism despite not starting in the previous two matches. “We have to stay humble. Emotions and passion like this are incredible. We live for moments like these,” Carrick said after the match. Defender Harry Maguire added, “Carrick has united this team!” Cunha himself expressed his joy, calling it “an unbelievable feeling.”
For Arsenal, the defeat serves as a blow to their title hopes. Mikel Arteta is expected to review the team’s performance, especially after dropping crucial points at home. The result lifts United in the standings while Arsenal remain at the top—though their lead has now narrowed.
This thrilling encounter once again highlighted the Premier League’s reputation for unpredictability and drama. For United fans, it was a comeback to remember. (cc)
