Drama at Old Trafford: Arsenal stun Man. United with late equaliser

By Kazeem Ugbodaga

Arsenal fought back to earn a dramatic 1-1 draw against Manchester United at Old Trafford, with Declan Rice’s thunderous second-half strike cancelling out Bruno Fernandes’ stunning first-half free kick.

United looked set for victory after Fernandes fired home from distance in the 45th minute, curling a pinpoint free kick inside the right post.

The home side held firm for much of the second half, with Andre Onana making a series of crucial saves to deny Arsenal’s persistent attacks.

The Gunners, however, refused to relent. In the 74th minute, Rice latched onto a well-weighted pass outside the box and unleashed a powerful drive that beat Onana and crashed into the net via the left-hand post.

The equaliser ignited a frantic finish, with both sides pushing for a winner.

Arsenal had a golden opportunity deep into stoppage time when Leandro Trossard connected with a cross inside the box, but his goal-bound effort was superbly blocked by a United defender.

Moments earlier, David Raya had been called into action at the other end, comfortably gathering a low shot from Bruno Fernandes.

Despite late chances for both teams, the final whistle confirmed a share of the spoils, leaving Manchester United frustrated while Arsenal celebrated a hard-fought point.