Arsene Wenger has revealed that Arsenal knew if they could keep the scoreline at 0-0 until halftime, they would beat Manchester United.
- Arsenal win over United puts Gunners six points outside top four
- Gunners have four Premier League matches left to play this season
- Wenger predicted second half win ahead of match if Arsenal didn’t concede
Although United came close to scoring twice in the first half, Arsenal had their share of chances at the other end, proving that they were more than capable of beating this Jose Mourinho side if they just remained a little more composed in front of goal.
In the second half, the Gunners tend to be stronger. They have for a couple of seasons. This isn’t new and although relying on this has been rather risky this season in particular, Second Half Arsenal came out after the break at the Emirates, scoring twice and giving the team a slightly greater chance of finishing in the top four.
Speaking to Arsenal Player after the match, Wenger admitted that his team had predicted that if they could keep the scoreline at 0-0 and not concede in the first half, they would win it in the second.
“We said before the game if we go into our dressing 0-0 at half-time we will win the game, and it happened,” the manager said.
“After having a disappointing result in a big game, you always need some reassurance in the next game and not go running after the score. I’m convinced that was a vital part of the game today.”
Overall, United and Arsenal’s stats were pretty even. 50/50 possession; 10 shots for the Red Devils compared to the Gunners’ nine.
However, for once, it seems as if Arsenal wanted it more.