By Adenike Lawal
Declan Rice’s late strike salvaged a crucial point for Arsenal at Old Trafford, but the 1-1 draw against Manchester United did little to aid their fading Premier League title chase.
Arsenal started brightly, controlling possession but failing to break down a struggling United side.
The hosts, under pressure to perform, took the lead just before halftime when Bruno Fernandes curled in a stunning 25-yard free-kick, leaving David Raya helpless.
Raya, however, redeemed himself in the second half with a string of saves, keeping Arsenal in the contest.
With 16 minutes left, a defensive lapse gifted Rice the opportunity, and the midfielder fired a thunderous shot past Andre Onana to equalize.
Despite dominating possession (68.2%), Arsenal’s attacking struggles were evident, managing just six shots on target from 17 attempts.
Their inability to convert chances left them 15 points adrift of leaders Liverpool, with Champions League qualification now their primary focus.
For United, Fernandes’ brilliance remains a rare bright spot in an otherwise inconsistent campaign.
Ruben Amorim’s side showed resilience in the second half, but their lack of attacking threat continues to raise concerns.
In the end, a game of missed opportunities saw both teams settle for a point, leaving Arsenal frustrated and United searching for answers.
