As the second half kicked off, Arsenal launched a lightning-fast attack. When tactics fail to break down an opponent, the key is often to change the rhythm of the game—and Arsenal did exactly that.
Highbury erupted instantly. The Gunners fans embraced this sudden burst of aggression. Although Arsenal's penetrating attacks in the first half had produced no goals, they had clearly worn City down. City had likely expected more of the same after the break. Instead, Arsenal changed both tempo and intent.
City weren't the only ones who had adjusted their strategy—Arsenal had too. The moment they abruptly shifted their playing style and pace, the ripple effect was immediate and dangerous.
Richard felt a knot tighten in his chest as he watched City's players react. He became nervous almost instantly. As a former player himself, he understood all too well: the first five minutes and the last five minutes of each half were the most fragile moments in a match.
