Arsenal vs. Manchester United: Simulating Premier League Tie Using FIFA 14

By Nick Akerman
Arsenal and Manchester United fans will be fearing the worst heading into the Emirates clash on Feb. 12.

The Gunners, fresh from their 5-1 humiliation against Liverpool, need three points to continue their charge for the Premier League title. United arrive after yet another abysmal result, this time coming in the form of a 2-2 draw against Fulham, and they need a positive score to keep their hopes of fourth place burning—just about.

While the away supporters' sense of dread is certainly justified, hope can be taken from United's 1-0 win over Arsenal earlier in the season.

We excitedly decided to simulate the match using FIFA 14, but boy, did we make a mistake.

Arsenal vs. Manchester United: FIFA 14 Highlights

1'—Decent start from Arsenal, who control possession and slowly move forward.

22'—Smart play on the edge of United's area sees Mesut Ozil flash a shot at David de Gea's goal. The Spaniard meets a powerful strike with a smart save.


40'—No action to report whatsoever. United barely exit their half, while Arsenal look content to keep the ball without threatening.

HALF-TIME: Arsenal 0-0 Manchester United

55'—More of the same in the second half. United make a rare journey into Arsenal's box, but Ashley Young's weak effort drifts wide.

67'—This is a terrible, terrible (virtual) game of football. Jack Wilshere, Ozil and Santi Cazorla set up a tea party on the halfway line and tell the rest of their teammates they aren't allowed to play.

79'—A digital pigeon has just flown into the Clock End. Probably. Elsewhere, the writer of this article can be heard screaming from afar.

85'—Lukas Podolski meets a Cazorla cross, but he nods the ball softly into De Gea's hands. That was kind of the German.

FULL-TIME: Arsenal 0-0 Manchester United

Now, usually when there's a lack of action I would bring you a highlights video from the entire game. Unfortunately, Ozil's first half shot was the only moment of note throughout. Join me in weeping, please.

Instead of overrated videos (who needs them?), here's a selection of statistics to drill home the tedium.

FUT 14 TOTW 21 (February 5th 2014)

TOTW 21 IF (in-form) players (including Chiellini, Sneijder & Thiago!) will be available in packs from 6pm (UK time), February 5th 2014 until 5:30pm (UK time), February 12th 2014. This team can be challenged in the ‘Team of the Week’ section within FIFA 14 Ultimate Team on your console.

For live FUT 14 updates (including TOTW details & Happy Hour reminders)