A truly unforgettable encounter etched in the memories of English football fans occurred on this day in 2011, as Manchester United triumphed over Arsenal with a resounding 8-2 victory at Old Trafford.
Manchester United triumphed over Arsenal with a resounding 8-2 victory at Old Trafford
In a Premier League clash that captured the imagination, the Red Devils delivered an astounding display to overcome the Gunners in what became one of the most remarkable scorelines witnessed. The third round of the 2011/12 Premier League season saw Man United hosting Arsenal in a highly anticipated Super Sunday match. While the home advantage favored the Red Devils, the visiting team’s defensive shortcomings were highlighted. However, the breathtaking spectacle that unfolded at the Theater of Dreams was beyond anyone’s expectations.
The match was beyond anyone’s expectations
The match commenced with Danny Welbeck finding the net for Man Utd in the 22nd minute. Despite Robin Van Persie’s opportunity to level the score from the penalty spot, Arsenal endured successive blows from Young and Rooney, conceding two more goals. The first half concluded with Walcott’s effort reducing the deficit to 3-1.
Man Utd couldn’t stop scoring
However, the second half turned into a nightmare for Arsene Wenger’s squad. As they pushed forward in search of an equalizer, they were met with a barrage of devastating strikes. Nani, Park Ji Sung, Ashley Young, and Wayne Rooney (adding two more goals to his tally) orchestrated a ruthless offensive onslaught that enveloped Arsenal in their worst fears. Amidst Man Utd’s relentless celebration was a consolation goal from Van Persie for Arsenal. The final whistle sounded with an astounding 8-2 scoreline.
Wenger’s disappointment
Eight years have since passed, and the football landscape has undergone significant changes. Danny Welbeck’s journey led him from MU to Arsenal and ultimately to Watford. Van Persie’s transfer to Old Trafford earned him the label of a traitor among the Gooners. The entire Arsenal lineup from that fateful day, including manager Wenger in 2018 and, most recently, Koscielny in the summer of 2019, has departed.
They hadn’t played for United at the moment
On the Manchester United side, Sir Alex Ferguson has retired as well. From the official squad on that remarkable day, only David De Gea, Chris Smalling, and Ashley Young remain associated with the club. The passage of eight years has not dimmed the memory of this chilling encounter, which continues to resonate deeply among football fans.
Squads:
Manchester United: De Gea, Smalling, Jones, Evans, Evra, Nani (Park Ji-sung 68′), Cleverley, Anderson (Giggs 68′), Young, Rooney, Welbeck (Chicharito 36′).
Arsenal: Szczesny, Jenkinson, Djourou, Koscielny, Traore, Ramsey, Coquelin (Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain 62′), Rosicky, Walcott (Lansbury 84′), van Persie (Chamakh 84′), Arshavin.
Goal Scorers:
Manchester United: Welbeck (22′), Young (28′, 90′), Rooney (42′, 64′, 82’pen), Nani (67′), Park (70′)
Arsenal: Walcott (45′), Van Persie (74)