Five magic moments from Arsenal vs Manchester United FA Cup clashes
The stage for the third round of the FA Cup is set, with Arsenal and Manchester United promising an exciting fixture on Sunday.
The rivalry between the two clubs has produced some of the most iconic moments in English football history.
When these two giants clash in the FA Cup, sparks are guaranteed to fly.
Ahead of their latest encounter, Sports News Blitz writer Noah Ngcobo revisits five unforgettable moments from their FA Cup ties.
1. Ryan Giggs’ solo stunner (1999)
Arguably the greatest moment in FA Cup history, Ryan Giggs' extra-time goal in the 1999 semi-final replay at Villa Park remains etched in the memories of football fans.
Picking up the ball from Patrick Vieira's misplaced pass, Giggs weaved past four Arsenal defenders before smashing the ball into the roof of the net.
His iconic shirt-twirling celebration capped off an exhilarating night, as United went on to complete their historic Treble.
2. Jesse Lingard’s "Moonwalk" celebration (2019)
Manchester United's 3-1 victory over Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium in the 2019 FA Cup fourth round was memorable for Jesse Lingard's show-stopping celebration.
After scoring United's second goal, Lingard marked the occasion with a cheeky moonwalk, taunting the home crowd.
It was a defining moment of the game, as United’s counter-attacking masterclass under Ole Gunnar Solskjaer knocked Arsenal out of the competition.
3. Scholes breaks Arsenal hearts in their Invincible season (2004)
Arsenal were on the brink of completing their historic unbeaten Premier League season when they faced Manchester United in the 2004 FA Cup semi-final at Villa Park.
The Gunners, chasing a league and cup double and aiming for a third consecutive FA Cup triumph, seemed unstoppable. However, United had other plans.
A sharp cutback from Ryan Giggs found Paul Scholes in the box, and the midfield maestro rifled the ball past Jens Lehmann to score the only goal of the game.
The result ended Arsenal's cup hopes, denying them a shot at further glory that season.
United went on to lift the trophy by defeating Millwall in the final. Stopping Arsenal during their invincible campaign made this victory all the more special for the Red Devils.
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4. Arsenal end United's dominance in dramatic style (2005)
The 2005 FA Cup final was the culmination of a fierce rivalry, with Manchester United looking to reassert their dominance over Arsenal.
The match at Cardiff's Millennium Stadium was a tense, hard-fought affair, with neither side able to break the deadlock across 120 minutes of play.
United had been the better side for much of the game, dominating possession and creating the more dangerous chances.
However, Arsenal held firm, their resilience and defensive solidity forcing the game into penalties. In the shootout, Arsenal's composure shone through, with Patrick Vieira stepping up for the decisive kick.
The Gunners' captain calmly slotted home, securing Arsenal's 10th FA Cup triumph in what would be his final act in a Gunners shirt.
For Arsenal, the victory was even sweeter as it ended United’s stronghold over the fixture, marking a symbolic moment in their rivalry.
Beating their fiercest rivals in such dramatic fashion remains a cherished memory for Gunners fans.
5. A 16-year-old Theo Walcott shines (2008)
In the 2008 FA Cup fifth round, Arsenal thumped Manchester United 4-0 at Old Trafford in one of their most emphatic victories over their rivals.
The match was notable for a young Theo Walcott’s electric performance, showcasing his blistering pace and promise.
It was a humbling defeat for United and a glimpse of Arsenal’s exciting future.
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