United Beyond Manchester

In the race for the third Champions League spot, the United women’s team faces Arsenal this Saturday. United is currently 4th, and four points off of Arsenal, who are holding the coveted Champions League place. A Manchester United win can put major pressure on Arsenal and create a captivating race down the stretch, as United would be one point back with eight matches left to play.

Current Form

After dropping matches to league leaders Chelsea and Manchester City, the Red Devils have gotten back on track with back-to-back wins against Brighton and Aston Villa in the league. United scored twice in each of those matches, with Nikita Parris scoring all four. This fine run of form has seen her double her season scoring total and given her the United lead in league goal scoring.

Arsenal had their four-game winning streak ended by West Ham in their last league match after a second-half comeback from the Hammers saw Arsenal fall 2-1. Following the West Ham loss, the Gunners were dropped out of the FA Women’s Cup by Manchester City in a tight affair that ended 1-0 with a late City goal deciding it. These two back-to-back losses will give United confidence that they can go to The Emirates and steal three points.

Implications

This match is critical for both sides, especially United, who still have to play Manchester City and Chelsea again before the end of the season. While every game is a must-win at this point in the season, a win this weekend will help to possibly ease pressure on the future difficult matchups that United has ahead. United will be looking to get back into the Champions League after a disappointing showing saw them go out in the group stage of this year’s competition.

Match Prediction

Both teams will be looking to take control in this match. Arsenal will be looking to correct their recent form, and United will be looking to create real pressure in the Champions League race. However, I expect a 1-1 draw at the Emirates this weekend, with neither team able to get the final finish.