Harry Maguire was at the center of the turmoil during Manchester United’s FA Cup clash with Arsenal, which erupted into an on-pitch brawl at the Emirates Stadium.
Tempers flared between the historic rivals when the referee awarded a penalty with twenty minutes remaining, ruling that Maguire had fouled Kai Havertz in the box. The decision was met with frustration from the United center-back, who protested his innocence and seemed to accuse Havertz of diving.
Without VAR available in this third-round FA Cup match, the penalty stood, igniting a heated confrontation between players. In a fit of anger, Maguire shouted, “You cheating scumbag” at Havertz just before chaos ensued.
Players from both teams squared up, with Uruguayan midfielder Manuel Ugarte also getting involved as Havertz lay on the ground.
Once tempers cooled, Martin Ødegaard stepped up to take the penalty, aiming to give the Gunners the lead. However, Altay Bayindir made a spectacular save, keeping the score level and sending the match into extra time.
Arsenal initially fell behind, with Bruno Fernandes scoring for Ruben Amorim’s side after being set up by Alejandro Garnacho. The Gunners responded through Gabriel, whose shot deflected off Matthijs de Ligt to find the back of the net.
The penalty incident wasn’t the only drama, as Diogo Dalot received a red card between the two goals for a reckless challenge, earning a second yellow.
Both teams hunted for a winner in extra time, eager to keep their FA Cup hopes alive, but neither could find the decisive goal, leading to a penalty shootout.
Havertz’s missed penalty proved crucial, allowing Joshua Zirkzee to convert United’s fifth and final penalty, securing their place in the FA Cup fourth round.