Leah Williamson returned as Arsenal were held 0-0 by Manchester United despite Jayde Riviere’s red card. Arsenal dominated but failed to score, so punters should be wary of backing an Arsenal win at short odds; consider Arsenal double chance (win or draw) or under 2.5 goals as a safer bet given United’s resilience.
Arsenal held to goalless draw by Manchester United at Emirates
Leah Williamson made her first Women’s Super League start of the season as Arsenal were held to a 0-0 draw by Manchester United at the Emirates Stadium. Williamson, limited to nine minutes of league action this term after a knee injury in the Euro final, could not spark a breakthrough in a cagey, low-scoring contest.
Key moments and turning points
Arsenal had an early scare when goalkeeper Anneke Borbé deflected a Fridolina Rolfö header onto the woodwork. The home side then grew into the match, creating sustained pressure and forcing a smart save from Phallon Tullis-Joyce to deny Olivia Smith from close range. Arsenal enjoyed long periods of control, with Alessia Russo a consistent threat, but were repeatedly frustrated by resolute defending. Jayde Riviere was sent off in the 66th minute for a second yellow card following a late tackle on Caitlin Foord, yet United held firm. Victoria Pelova came close deep into stoppage time, but the deadlock remained.
Selections and tactical notes
Arsenal made five changes from their League Cup line-up, restoring Kim Little and Alessia Russo to the starting XI. United introduced Melvine Malard and Riviere as their only new faces. Arsenal’s buildup play and possession dominance failed to produce the clinical finishing required, highlighting a continued problem converting territory into goals. United defended compactly after the dismissal and relied on organization and last-ditch interventions to see out the draw.
League context and consequences
The result leaves Arsenal with their fifth draw from 12 WSL matches, a run that could concern supporters given the side’s dominance in large spells without securing three points. United’s ability to frustrate despite being reduced to 10 players underlines their defensive resilience on the road.
Betting implications
Arsenal’s inability to convert sustained pressure into goals suggests caution for bettors: backing Arsenal to win at short odds is riskier than expected. Safer market options include Arsenal double chance (win or draw) or under 2.5 goals, reflecting the match’s low scoring and United’s capacity to withstand pressure even when a player is sent off.
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Leah Williamson made her first start this season as Arsenal were held to a goalless draw by Man United.
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