Kafaji involved when Arsenal avoided new slump

The criticism of Jonas Eidevall will likely continue after Arsenal's league premiere. But the big blunder was avoided – thanks to Rosa Kafaji. The 21-year-old was behind the 2-2 goal against Manchester City in the English Super League.

» Published: September 22 2024

Kafaji involved when Arsenal avoided new slump
Photo: Björn Larsson Rosvall/TT

Eidevall rearranged almost his entire attack compared to the eleven that started in the unexpected 0-1 loss away to Häcken in the Champions League qualifying earlier in the week.

Stina Blackstenius, Frida Maanum, and Caitlin Foord all got the chance in Sunday's league premiere at Emirates Stadium, and it bore fruit even before the clock had reached eight minutes.

Effective City

Foord stormed forward to the right and sent the ball in at an angle into the penalty area. Blackstenius got a foot on it, which became a perfect pass to Maanum, who thundered in 1-0 into the net.

Arsenal dominated heavily in the first half. Therefore, the 1-1 goal came unexpectedly.

A messy situation on the edge of Arsenal's penalty area ended with Vivianne Miedema - new in Manchester City from just Arsenal - getting hold of the ball and shooting via a home defender and into goal.

History repeated itself after the break. Arsenal pressed City, but it was the visitors who showed effectiveness.

A seemingly harmless cross into Arsenal's penalty area was headed away in the 58th minute, but not better than it landed with Jess Park. The 22-year-old let the ball bounce once, pulled away, and got a dream hit - 2-1 to Manchester City via the crossbar.

Kafaji assist via post

Jonas Eidevall has been criticized ever since Arsenal missed the Champions League last year, and a loss in the league premiere would not have strengthened his stock.

But some smart substitutions - including Swedish newcomer Rosa Kafaji and English striker Beth Mead - saved the afternoon.

Kafaji got the ball deep and finished coolly on the inside of City goalkeeper Ayaka Yamashita. The shot went inside the post, and on the rebound, Mead stayed ahead and pushed in 2-2.

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By TTThis article has been altered and translated by Sweden Herald

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