Fans were quick to criticize David Raya for his performance during Arsenal’s penalty shootout against Manchester United, which ended in a 5-3 defeat after a 1-1 draw over 120 minutes. The Gunners faced ten-man United, but Raya’s inability to save any of the penalties became a focal point for disappointment.
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Particularly notable was his approach during Leny Yoro’s penalty, where he was seen shuffling to the right and hopping as the defender approached the ball. Ultimately, Raya committed to the wrong side, allowing Yoro to slot the ball into the bottom left corner. Fans took to social media to voice their frustration, with one user declaring it “up there with the worst goalkeeping I’ve ever seen,” while another remarked that Raya’s attempts at saves resembled “something out of a comic book.” A third jabbed, “Down earlier than Southampton,” referencing the struggling Premier League side.
The first half of the match featured a lack of quality from both teams, with Gabriel Martinelli’s goal being ruled out for offside. The second half picked up pace as Bruno Fernandes put United ahead, only for the momentum to shift when Diogo Dalot was sent off for a second yellow card. Arsenal equalized through a deflected volley from Gabriel shortly after.
Arsenal had a chance to take the lead when awarded a penalty, but Altay Bayindir made a crucial save to deny Martin Ødegaard. After a tense extra time, the match went to penalties, where a miss from Kai Havertz ultimately sealed the Gunners’ fate, sending United through to face Leicester in the next round of the FA Cup, managed by club legend Ruud van Nistelrooy.