Altay Bayindir’s heroic performance leads Man United to FA Cup victory over Arsenal
Manchester United's Turkish goalkeeper #01 Altay Bayindir reacts after saving the penalty of Arsenal's German midfielder #29 Kai Havertz during a penalty shoot out during the English FA Cup third round football match between Arsenal and Manchester United at the Emirates Stadium in London on January 12, 2025. (AFP Photo)
In an exciting FA Cup third-round clash at Emirates Stadium, Manchester United defeated Arsenal 5-3 in a penalty shootout to progress to the next round.
The match ended 1-1 after normal time and extra time, with Turkish national goalkeeper Altay Bayindir‘s crucial performance in goal playing a key role in Manchester United’s victory.
Match summary
Manchester United took the lead in the 52nd minute with a goal from Bruno Fernandes. However, the visiting team was reduced to 10 men in the 61st minute when Diogo Dalot received a red card. Despite the man disadvantage, United held their ground, but Arsenal equalized in the 63rd minute through Gabriel dos Santos Magalhaes.
Altay Bayindir’s key saves
Arsenal was awarded a penalty in the 72nd minute when Martin Odegaard stepped up to take the spot kick. However, Altay Bayindir made a brilliant save, denying Odegaard and keeping the score level.
Later, in the 79th minute, Bayindir produced another vital save, this time stopping a header from Declan Rice, ensuring United stayed in the game.
Altay Bayindir’s impact in penalty shootout
After the match ended 1-1, the game went to penalties. Manchester United converted all five of their spot kicks, while Arsenal’s Kai Havertz was denied by Altay Bayindir, as the Turkish goalkeeper helped his side secure a 5-3 victory in the shootout.
Altay Bayindir’s outstanding performance, including his crucial saves during regular play and in the penalty shootout, was pivotal in helping Manchester United advance to the next round of the FA Cup. Arsenal, on the other hand, was eliminated from the tournament.
