Danny Welbeck scores winner against old club Manchester United; Arsenal progress into FA Cup semi-final

Danny Welbeck applauds travelling Arsenal fans after the FA Cup victory at Old Trafford

Danny Welbeck’s matchwinner against his former club and Angel di Maria’s moment of madness leading to a red card were the two biggest talking points from tonight’s FA Cup quarter final, where Arsenal trumped Manchester United at Old Trafford 2-1.

The first half was an exhibition in attacking football, with some beautiful moves being stitched together by both sides. Nacho Monreal gave the away team the lead in the 25th minute, but Wayne Rooney provided the final touch to a Di Maria cross only 4 minutes later to level the scores.

With pressure mounting in the second half, Danny Welbeck seized on a weak back pass by Antonio Valencia in the 61st minute, evaded the onrushing David de Gea, and slotted in the matchwinner.

Di Maria was shown an yellow card for diving, and a subsequent red card for appearing to grab the referee’s shirt after the incident. United were consigned to try and fight back for the last 15 minutes with 10 men.

Manchster United’s last hope of silverware this season ends with this defeat.

Arsenal, who have now ended a run of 10 games at Old Trafford without a win, will face either Bradford City or Reading for a place in the FA Cup final.

Wenger: "You always want to show your former club that you are a great player. He focused on his game and showed mental strength." #MUFCvAFC

— Arsenal FC (@Arsenal) March 9, 2015

#afc 9,000 fans superb, non-stop support. Welbeck took winner well, strong #afc team performance. Would have won by more but for De Gea.

— Henry Winter (@henrywinter) March 9, 2015