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FA Cup: Man City thrash Salford 8-0, Liverpool ease past Accrington

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FA Cup: Man City thrash Salford 8-0, Liverpool ease past Accrington

Manchester City shattered Salford City’s FA Cup hopes with a commanding 8-0 victory on Saturday, while Liverpool secured a 4-0 win over Accrington Stanley to advance to the fourth round. 

Chelsea delivered another standout performance, crushing Morecambe 5-0, while Brentford suffered an unexpected defeat as Championship strugglers Plymouth Argyle stunned them 1-0 with a late strike by Morgan Whittaker. 

League Two side Salford City, backed by former Manchester United stars David Beckham, Gary Neville, Phil Neville, Paul Scholes, Ryan Giggs, and Nicky Butt, has risen through the ranks since their 2014 investment. However, the dream of a cup upset ended at the Etihad Stadium, where Scholes, Butt, and director of football Giggs watched their team succumb to a ruthless Manchester City. 

Pep Guardiola rotated his squad, resting Erling Haaland, but Manchester City’s dominance remained. Jeremy Doku opened the scoring just eight minutes in, with youngsters Divin Mubama and Nico O’Reilly extending the lead to 3-0 by halftime. 

Jack Grealish converted a penalty for his first goal in over a year, while Doku added another from the spot. James McAtee stole the spotlight, completing a stunning 20-minute second-half hat trick to seal City’s emphatic victory. 

At Anfield, Liverpool maintained control against Accrington Stanley despite manager Arne Slot making eight changes to his starting lineup. Trent Alexander-Arnold captained the Reds in the absence of Virgil van Dijk and silenced recent criticism with an inspiring performance. 

Diogo Jota broke the deadlock in the 29th minute, tapping in a low cross from Darwin Nunez. Moments later, Alexander-Arnold doubled Liverpool’s lead with a sensational long-range strike into the top corner. 

Jayden Danns added a third before Federico Chiesa scored his first goal for Liverpool following an injury-hit start to his career in England. 

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Ukraine Captures Two North Korean Soldiers in Kursk, Zelenskyy Says

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Ukraine Captures Two North Korean Soldiers in Kursk, Zelenskyy Says

Ukraine has captured two North Korean soldiers in Russia’s Kursk region, marking the first time North Korean troops have been taken alive since their reported deployment last autumn, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Saturday. 

North Korean troops reportedly joined Russia’s war efforts in October, according to Kyiv and Western officials, who initially estimated their numbers at 10,000 or more. 

In a statement on X, Zelenskyy said the captured soldiers were transported to Kyiv, where they are cooperating with Ukraine’s Security Service (SBU), the nation’s domestic intelligence agency. 

“As with all prisoners of war, these two North Korean soldiers are receiving the necessary medical assistance,” Zelenskyy said. He added that journalists would soon be granted access to interview them. 

Kyiv alleges that North Korean forces are active in the Kursk region, where Ukraine launched an incursion in August. Ukrainian forces maintain control over several hundred square kilometers of territory in the area, officials said. 

Additionally, North Korea has reportedly been supplying Russia with large quantities of artillery shells, a claim corroborated by Kyiv’s Western allies. 

Russia has neither confirmed nor denied the presence of North Korean troops in Kursk, and neither Moscow nor Pyongyang has responded to Ukraine’s latest claims. 

Ukraine previously reported capturing North Korean soldiers in combat, but those individuals were severely wounded and later died. 

Zelenskyy revealed in a subsequent video address that the capture was carried out by Ukraine’s special forces, working in coordination with paratroopers. 

Drone footage released by Ukraine’s special forces shows a forested area where five men in camouflage appeared to be involved in the operation. The footage, however, lacked further discernible details. 

Additional video from the SBU shows the two North Korean soldiers. One soldier’s jaw was bandaged from an apparent wound, while the other was shown drinking through a straw. 

A doctor featured in the video said one soldier suffered a facial injury requiring dental treatment, and the other had an open wound and a fractured lower leg. 

The SBU reported that the North Korean soldiers, born in 1999 and 2005, have been serving in the North Korean armed forces since 2016 and 2021, respectively. They have been transferred to Kyiv for further questioning, which is being conducted in Korean with assistance from South Korea’s National Intelligence Service (NIS). 

Documents found on one soldier linked him to a Russian identity, while the other carried no identification, the SBU said. 

Ukrainian officials stated the two prisoners are being held in accordance with international law. Authorities are conducting a criminal investigation to determine whether the soldiers violated Ukraine’s laws on waging war. 

Los Angeles Wildfire Shifts Direction, Triggers New Evacuation Orders

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Los Angeles Wildfire Shifts Direction, Triggers New Evacuation Orders

The largest wildfire sweeping across Los Angeles County shifted direction Saturday, prompting new evacuation orders and creating additional challenges for firefighters already battling exhaustion. 

Six wildfires have scorched neighborhoods since Tuesday, leaving 11 people dead and destroying or damaging more than 10,000 structures, officials said. Firefighters have been unable to conduct house-to-house searches to assess the full toll of destruction. 

The Santa Ana winds fueling the blazes eased Friday night, but the Palisades Fire, burning on the city’s western edge, moved northeast toward the Brentwood neighborhood and San Fernando Valley foothills, the Los Angeles Times reported. 

“The Palisades Fire has developed a significant flare-up on its eastern edge and is heading northeast,” said Los Angeles Fire Department Captain Erik Scott. 

The Palisades Fire and the Eaton Fire, burning in the foothills east of Los Angeles, have combined to scorch more than 35,000 acres — roughly 54 square miles. Officials said Friday night that the Palisades Fire was 8% contained and the Eaton Fire was 3% contained. 

Authorities said more than 153,000 residents remained under evacuation orders, with another 166,800 warned to be ready to leave if the fires worsen. 

Firefighters have made progress battling the Eaton Fire in the foothills, aided by aerial water drops and ground crews working to establish fire lines. Additional aid has come from neighboring states, federal resources, and even Canada. 

The National Weather Service said wind speeds are expected to decrease over the weekend, but officials warned that dry vegetation and low humidity continue to pose critical fire risks. Strong winds could return as early as Tuesday. 

California officials declared a public health emergency due to toxic smoke blanketing the area. 

The Palisades neighborhood was among the hardest hit, with many homes reduced to ash. Residents returning to survey the damage found only chimneys standing among the rubble. 

Kelly Foster, 44, described sifting through the remains of her home as “devastating.” 

Rick McGeagh, 61, said his ranch house in Palisades was reduced to rubble, with only a statue of the Virgin Mary left standing. 

Private forecaster AccuWeather estimated the fires would cost between $135 billion and $150 billion in damage and economic loss. The fires have displaced thousands of residents, left tens of thousands without power, and exposed millions to hazardous air quality. 

California Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara urged insurers to extend grace periods for payments and suspend cancellations in affected areas. 

President Joe Biden declared the wildfires a major disaster, ensuring federal reimbursement for 100% of recovery costs for six months. 

U.S. Targets Russian Oil Revenues with Toughest Sanctions Yet

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U.S. Targets Russian Oil Revenues with Toughest Sanctions Yet

The Biden administration has announced its most extensive package of sanctions to date targeting Russia’s oil and gas revenues, aiming to weaken Moscow’s ability to fund its war in Ukraine. The move, unveiled on Friday, comes as part of a broader U.S. strategy to support Kyiv while bolstering leverage for peace negotiations under incoming President Donald Trump.

The sanctions target Russia’s energy sector, the largest source of revenue for President Vladimir Putin’s government. Since the February 2022 invasion of Ukraine, the war has resulted in over 12,300 civilian deaths and the destruction of numerous Ukrainian cities.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky described the sanctions as a significant blow to Moscow. “The less revenue Russia earns from oil… the sooner peace will be restored,” Zelensky said on social media platform X.

Daleep Singh, a top White House adviser, stated that the measures represent the “most significant sanctions yet on Russia’s energy sector.” 

The U.S. Treasury has imposed sanctions on Gazprom Neft, Surgutneftegas, and 183 vessels involved in shipping Russian oil. Many of these vessels belong to the “shadow fleet,” a network of aging tankers operated by non-Western companies to bypass sanctions. The measures also target companies and networks facilitating the trade of Russian petroleum.

Since the Group of Seven imposed a price cap on Russian oil in 2022, exports have shifted from Europe to markets in India and China. Several sanctioned vessels have reportedly carried both Russian and Iranian oil.

The Treasury also revoked an exemption allowing the intermediation of energy payments through Russian banks. This change could cost Russia billions of dollars monthly if the sanctions are effectively enforced, officials said. 

“There is not a step in the production and distribution chain that’s untouched,” one official added, signaling increased costs for Russia’s evasion tactics.

Gazprom Neft condemned the sanctions as unjustified and pledged to continue its operations. Meanwhile, global oil prices rose more than 3%, with Brent crude approaching $80 per barrel. Traders cited anticipated disruptions in Russian exports to India and China as a primary factor.

The Biden administration has emphasized that new oil supplies expected from the U.S., Guyana, Canada, Brazil, and potentially the Middle East will mitigate the impact of lost Russian oil on global markets. “We’re no longer constrained by tight supply in global markets,” said Geoffrey Pyatt, U.S. assistant secretary for energy resources.

The sanctions complement the $64 billion in military aid provided by the U.S. since the invasion began, including $500 million this week for air defense systems and fighter jet support.

U.S. officials believe the economic pressure will exacerbate existing challenges for Russia’s economy, which is already grappling with inflation nearing 10% and a bleak outlook for 2025 and beyond.

The incoming Trump administration, which takes office on January 20, will determine whether the sanctions remain in place. However, reversing the measures would require congressional approval.

“Trump’s people can’t just come in and quietly lift everything that Biden just did. Congress would have to be involved,” said Jeremy Paner, a partner at Hughes Hubbard & Reed.

While Trump’s return has raised hopes for a diplomatic resolution, concerns linger in Kyiv over the potential cost of peace negotiations. Some of Trump’s advisers have proposed concessions that would cede significant Ukrainian territories to Russia.

“The sanctions and military aid provide the next administration with substantial leverage in brokering a just and durable peace,” a U.S. official noted.

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Wagner Group Fighter Arrested at U.S. Border Admits Links to Putin’s Private Army

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Wagner Group Fighter Arrested at U.S. Border Admits Links to Putin’s Private Army

A former fighter for Vladimir Putin’s notorious Wagner Group has been arrested after illegally crossing the U.S. border from Mexico, officials said.

Timur Praliev, a 30-year-old dual passport holder, was detained near Roma, Texas, on January 4 after wading across the Rio Grande River. He was reportedly in possession of $4,000 in U.S. currency, 60,000 Mexican pesos (approximately $2,895), and a drone, according to Assistant U.S. Attorney Amanda McColgan.

Praliev admitted during questioning to being a member of the Wagner Group, a private military company widely regarded as operating under the control of Russian President Vladimir Putin. The Wagner Group has been accused of committing war crimes, including murder, rape, torture, and robbery of civilians, as well as executing deserters in multiple countries where it operates.

The U.S. has designated the Wagner Group as a paramilitary organization linked to atrocities across Africa and Ukraine, where its fighters have played a significant role in the ongoing invasion.

“The defendant was also in possession of a drone in his backpack when he crossed into the United States,” McColgan said, adding that Praliev’s association with the group raises concerns about community safety.

Praliev, identified as a citizen of Kazakhstan, was charged with illegal entry into the United States, a federal misdemeanor. He pleaded guilty and was sentenced to 15 days in federal custody.

The criminal complaint revealed that Praliev carried both Russian and Kazakh passports at the time of his arrest. Kazakhstan prohibits dual citizenship, requiring individuals who acquire a foreign passport to renounce their Kazakh nationality within 30 days.

Reports from Ukrainian outlet Idel.Realii suggest that Praliev served as a veteran fighter for the Wagner Group in Bashkortostan, Russia. His motives for crossing the U.S. border with a drone remain unclear.

McColgan emphasized the government’s concern about Praliev’s release, citing his affiliation with an organization associated with political violence.

Miraculous Malibu Mansion Survives Raging Wildfires, Owner Attributes Survival to Unique Construction

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Miraculous Malibu Mansion Survives Raging Wildfires, Owner Attributes Survival to Unique Construction

A nearly $9 million Malibu mansion miraculously survived the devastating Los Angeles wildfires, leaving its owner astonished when the smoke cleared, and the structure remained standing amid the charred remains of neighboring homes. 

“It’s a miracle — miracles never cease,” said David Steiner, 64, a retired waste-management executive from Texas. 

The three-story California home, vacant during the fire, was feared lost after a contractor sent Steiner a video of flames and smoke engulfing the property and neighboring houses. 

“[The contractor] was watching the news reports and saw my neighbor’s house going down. He told me, ‘It looks like your house is going, too,’” Steiner said. 

Upon receiving the video, Steiner said it seemed impossible that the home could survive. “It looked like nothing could have possibly survived that, and I thought we had lost the house.” 

Photos of the white three-story mansion standing intact among the wreckage spread quickly, with people contacting Steiner to say, “Your house is all over the news.” 

“I started getting pictures and realized we had made it through,” Steiner said. “My wife sent me something this morning that said, ‘Last house standing.’ It brought a big smile to my face at a pretty bad time.” 

Steiner, a former attorney and executive, credits the home’s ultra-sturdy construction, designed for earthquake resistance, for its survival during the Palisades Fire. 

“It’s stucco and stone with a fireproof roof,” Steiner said, noting the house also features pilings that extend 50 feet into bedrock to withstand powerful waves from the nearby Pacific Ocean. 

“To be totally honest, I never in a million years thought a wildfire would jump to the Pacific Coast Highway and start a fire,” Steiner said. “I thought, ‘If we ever have an earthquake, this would be the last thing to go.’ I didn’t think fire would be the threat, but it was.” 

The 4,200-square-foot, four-bedroom home was purchased from a producer and features design elements inspired by cruise ships, Steiner said. 

“The fireplace chimney looks like the smoke stack of a boat, and the back balcony feels like a cruise ship because you’re right there on the water,” he added. 

Malibu house owner

While grateful for the home’s survival, Steiner acknowledged the devastation faced by others in the area. “My heart goes out to those who lost their homes,” he said. 

Steiner also noted the house likely sustained smoke damage but confirmed he has insurance, though wildfire coverage is limited. 

Rudy Giuliani Held in Contempt Again in Defamation Case Over Georgia Election Workers

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Rudy Giuliani Held in Contempt Again in Defamation Case Over Georgia Election Workers

Former New York City Mayor and Trump attorney Rudy Giuliani has been found in contempt of court for the second time this week in connection with a defamation case involving former Georgia election workers Ruby Freeman and Wandrea “Shaye” Moss. 

The latest ruling, issued Friday by U.S. District Judge Beryl Howell in Washington, stems from Giuliani’s failure to comply with a court-ordered agreement to cease making defamatory statements about Freeman and Moss. Earlier this week, U.S. District Judge Lewis Liman in New York found Giuliani in contempt for not providing financial information related to the $146 million judgment in the case. 

During the hearing, Howell emphasized the reach of Giuliani’s platform. “You’re the most famous person in this courtroom right now… you’ve got a bigger audience and a bigger public following than anyone in this courtroom,” she said. The judge warned Rudy to be mindful of his influence. 

Freeman and Moss’s attorney, Michael Gottlieb, urged the court to fine Giuliani $20,000 for each violation to deter future defamation. Giuliani’s attorney, Eden Quainton, argued against the penalty, stating it would be “excessive.” Howell questioned whether Giuliani intended to stop making defamatory remarks, calling the ongoing behavior “chilling.” 

Giuliani testified about his financial situation, denying claims that he had significant legal resources at his disposal. He also acknowledged the disappearance of a valuable New York Yankees jersey autographed by Joe DiMaggio, which he had failed to turn over as part of the court-ordered asset disclosure. 

Freeman and Moss sued Giuliani for his false claims that they were involved in election fraud during the 2020 presidential election. The court previously ruled in 2023 that Giuliani defamed the women. Despite his appeals, Giuliani has not fully complied with court orders. 

The defamation case has already resulted in a $146 million judgment against Giuliani. He has maintained that his comments were protected by the First Amendment, a claim the court has repeatedly rejected. 

Delta Passengers Evacuate Plane on Emergency Slides at Atlanta Airport Amid Winter Storm 

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Delta Passengers Evacuate Plane on Emergency Slides at Atlanta Airport Amid Winter Storm 

Delta Flight 2668, carrying 201 passengers, was evacuated at Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport on Friday morning due to an engine issue. Passengers exited the Boeing 757-300 via emergency slides and were transported back to the terminal using ground vehicles. The flight was scheduled to depart for Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport at around 7 a.m. but faced complications as severe winter weather gripped Atlanta. The Federal Aviation Administration reported that takeoff was suspended at approximately 9 a.m., and an investigation into the engine malfunction is underway.

Delta stated that the flight crew, which included two pilots and five flight attendants, adhered to established safety protocols to suspend the takeoff. The airline reaffirmed its commitment to passenger safety, apologizing for the disruption and pledging support to affected customers to ensure they reach their destinations safely and quickly.

Four passengers reported minor injuries. One was transported for medical treatment, while three others were treated on the scene. Airport operations were delayed due to the incident and adverse weather conditions. Officials said the affected aircraft and runway would be cleared shortly.

The winter storm has caused significant travel disruptions across the region, with Atlanta experiencing one to two inches of snow and up to a quarter inch of ice. The National Weather Service urged residents to avoid non-essential travel. The storm has severely impacted flights nationwide, with more than 2,600 cancellations and 2,500 delays reported. Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport was the hardest hit, recording almost 900 cancellations and over 430 delays. Power outages have also affected over 4,000 customers in Georgia.

Delta Flight 2668’s evacuation marks another challenge during the ongoing weather crisis. Despite the setbacks, the airline remains focused on ensuring passenger safety while working to resume normal operations.

FA Cup Preview: Liverpool vs. Accrington Stanley – Prediction, Team News, and Lineups 

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FA Cup Preview: Liverpool vs. Accrington Stanley – Prediction, Team News, and Lineups 

Liverpool kick off their FA Cup campaign this Saturday at Anfield, hosting League Two side Accrington Stanley in a David vs. Goliath third-round encounter. This marks the first meeting between the two clubs since Accrington’s reformation in 1968, creating a historic moment for the visitors. 

Liverpool’s FA Cup Journey 

The Reds, eight-time winners of the FA Cup, last claimed the trophy in 2022. However, their recent performances in the competition have been underwhelming, including last season’s quarter-final exit against Manchester United in a dramatic 4-3 extra-time thriller. 

Coming into this tie, Arne Slot’s side saw their 24-game unbeaten streak end midweek in the EFL Cup semi-final against Tottenham Hotspur, losing 1-0. Despite the setback, Liverpool remain Premier League leaders and will look to bounce back with a convincing performance in the FA Cup. 

Accrington Stanley: The Underdogs’ Dream 

For Accrington Stanley, this match is a dream opportunity. The League Two outfit, managed by Liverpool-born John Doolan, has a perfect record in FA Cup third-round ties, progressing to the fourth round on all four previous occasions. 

Despite their struggles last season, Accrington have shown resilience this campaign, eliminating non-league Rushall Olympic and Swindon Town on penalties to reach this stage. Their recent form has been promising, with back-to-back wins against Grimsby Town and Colchester United lifting them away from the League Two relegation zone. 

Team News and Possible Lineups 

Liverpool: 

Slot is expected to rotate his squad heavily, giving opportunities to young talents like James McConnell, Tyler Morton, Trey Nyoni, and Jayden Danns. Injuries to Joe Gomez (hamstring) and Jarell Quansah limit defensive options, but first-team players like Darwin Nunez, Harvey Elliott, and Federico Chiesa could make appearances. 

Predicted lineup:

Kelleher; Bradley, Endo, Konate, Morton; McConnell, Nyoni, Elliott; Chiesa, Danns, Nunez 

Accrington Stanley:

The visitors will rely on key players like goalkeeper Billy Crellin, who faces a daunting task at Anfield. Tyler Walton, Accrington’s standout performer in the FA Cup so far, aims to make history as the first player in club history to score in all three opening rounds of the competition in the same season. 

Predicted lineup:

Crellin; Love, Rawson, Awe, B Woods; Whalley, Martin, Khumbeni, Hunter, J Woods; Walton 

Prediction 

While Accrington Stanley will undoubtedly approach this tie with determination, the gap in quality is immense. Even with a rotated squad, Liverpool’s depth and firepower are likely to overwhelm their League Two opponents. 

Final Score Prediction: Liverpool 6-0 Accrington Stanley 

The Reds are poised to dominate and advance comfortably, though Accrington can savor their moment on the big stage. 

FA Cup Preview: Arsenal vs. Manchester United – Predictions, Team News, and Lineups 

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FA Cup Preview: Arsenal vs. Manchester United – Predictions, Team News, and Lineups 

Two of English football’s most storied clubs clash in a highly anticipated FA Cup third-round encounter on Sunday. Arsenal, the FA Cup’s most successful team with 14 titles, welcome defending champions Manchester United to the Emirates Stadium. Both teams aim to assert their dominance in this historic competition. 

Arsenal’s Recent FA Cup Struggles 

Since their last FA Cup win in 2020, Arsenal have struggled in the tournament, experiencing early exits in the past four seasons, including a third-round defeat to Liverpool last year. The Gunners also faltered in the EFL Cup this week, losing 2-0 to Newcastle United in the semi-final first leg. 

Despite these setbacks, Mikel Arteta’s side has proven their ability to dethrone defending champions, doing so in their last six FA Cup matchups with titleholders. Additionally, Arsenal triumphed over Manchester United 2-0 at the Emirates in a Premier League clash just weeks ago, boosting their confidence for this showdown. 

Manchester United’s Roadblocks 

Ruben Amorim’s Manchester United arrive at the Emirates amid a turbulent spell. The team extended their winless streak to five games after a 2-2 draw against Liverpool last weekend, with defensive issues persisting. United have conceded at least two goals in each of their last nine matches. 

However, the defending champions have a strong record in the FA Cup’s third round, advancing in nine of their last 10 matches. Their recent history against Arsenal also bodes well, having won three of their last four FA Cup meetings, including a 3-1 victory at the Emirates in 2019. 

Team News and Probable Lineups 

Arsenal: 

Arteta will be without Bukayo Saka (hamstring), Ethan Nwaneri (muscle), Ben White (knee), and Takehiro Tomiyasu (knee). Gabriel Jesus may replace Leandro Trossard on the right wing, while Riccardo Calafiori could feature on the left. On-loan goalkeeper Neto might make his debut for the Gunners. 

Predicted lineup:

Raya; Timber, Saliba, Gabriel, Calafiori; Odegaard, Rice, Merino; Jesus, Havertz, Martinelli 

Manchester United: 

Marcus Rashford, recovering from illness, could return, though his potential transfer creates uncertainty. Amorim has confirmed that Altay Bayindir will start in goal. Mason Mount (thigh), Victor Lindelof (unspecified), and Luke Shaw (calf) remain unavailable. 

Predicted lineup: 

Bayindir; De Ligt, Maguire, Martinez; Mazraoui, Ugarte, Mainoo, Dalot; Diallo, Fernandes; Hojlund 

Prediction 

Arsenal’s struggles in front of goal against Newcastle may persist, especially against a determined Manchester United. However, the Red Devils’ inconsistency and Arsenal’s home advantage should tilt the balance in favor of the Gunners. 

Final Score Prediction: Arsenal 1-1 Manchester United (Arsenal to win on penalties). 

The Gunners are poised to edge past United and end their title defense in this electrifying FA Cup encounter. 

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