Arsenal were forced to settle for a point in their Premier League clash against Manchester United, as a late Declan Rice strike salvaged a 1-1 draw at Old Trafford. The Gunners dominated large periods of the match but had to come from behind after Bruno Fernandes’ stunning free-kick gave the hosts the lead just before halftime.
### **A Game of Two Halves**
The match started with Arsenal asserting their authority, controlling possession and dictating the tempo. Mikel Arteta’s men created several half-chances in the opening stages, with Martin Ødegaard and Leandro Trossard linking up well in attack. However, despite their control, Arsenal struggled to break down a disciplined Manchester United defense, with André Onana making a couple of key saves.
United, who were second-best for most of the first half, took the lead against the run of play in the 47th minute. Arsenal conceded a free-kick just outside the box, and Bruno Fernandes stepped up to curl a magnificent effort past David Raya, sending Old Trafford into celebration. It was Manchester United’s first shot on target, but it proved to be the decisive moment of the half as they went into the break with a 1-0 lead.
### **Arsenal’s Fightback**
The goal injected confidence into Ruben Amorim’s side, who started the second half more positively. Alejandro Garnacho looked particularly lively, causing problems for Arsenal’s backline with his direct runs. Raya was called into action on a few occasions, making crucial saves to keep the deficit at just one goal.
Arteta’s men kept pushing for an equalizer and finally got their reward in the 76th minute. Jurrien Timber made an impressive driving run into United’s half before laying the ball off to Declan Rice, who struck a first-time effort from distance that left Onana helpless. The Arsenal midfielder has been in fine form this season, and his goal ensured the Gunners walked away with at least a point.
### **Stats Show a Tight Contest**
Despite Arsenal’s early dominance, the game ended as a closely contested affair. United, who had just 0.11 expected goals (xG) in the first half, finished with a total of 1.65 xG compared to Arsenal’s 1.61, showing how much they improved in the second half. Both teams had their chances, but a draw was ultimately a fair result.
### **What’s Next for Arsenal?**
Following this result, Arsenal remain in **second place** in the Premier League table with **55 points** from **28 games**. The Gunners are still firmly in the title race but will be frustrated not to have taken all three points.
Their focus now shifts to the **Champions League**, where they will face PSV Eindhoven in the **second leg of their Round of 16 tie** at the Emirates Stadium on **Wednesday, March 12, 2025**. After that, Arteta’s side will prepare for a huge Premier League showdown against Chelsea next Sunday.
While a point at Old Trafford is respectable, Arsenal will need to rediscover their winning touch if they want to keep pace in the title race.