In a tense Premier League encounter at Old Trafford, Arsenal emerged victorious with a narrow 1-0 win over Manchester United, thanks to Leandro Trossard's decisive strike. The match, however, was not without controversy as Alejandro Garnacho's late equaliser was controversially disallowed by VAR.
Gunners Grind Out Vital Three Points
Mikel Arteta's side showed their title credentials with a professional performance against a resurgent Manchester United. The only goal of the game came in the 20th minute when Kai Havertz's cutback found Trossard, who made no mistake from close range.
United, missing several key players through injury, struggled to create clear chances against Arsenal's disciplined defence. Bruno Fernandes and Rasmus Hojlund were largely kept quiet by the impressive William Saliba and Gabriel partnership.
VAR Drama Mars Final Stages
The match's defining moment came in the 89th minute when Garnacho thought he had snatched a point for the Red Devils. The young winger raced through on goal and finished coolly past David Raya, only for the goal to be ruled out for a marginal offside in the build-up.
Erik ten Hag was visibly furious with the decision, remonstrating with the fourth official as Old Trafford erupted in protest. Replays showed the call was extremely tight, leaving United fans feeling hard done by.
Title Race Implications
This result keeps Arsenal firmly in the title race, just one point behind leaders Manchester City with two games remaining. For United, it's another blow to their fading hopes of Champions League qualification, leaving them eight points off fourth place.
The Gunners' defensive solidity was particularly impressive, registering their 17th clean sheet of the season - the most in the division. Aaron Ramsdale, deputising for the injured Raya, made several crucial saves to preserve the lead.
What's Next?
Arsenal face Bournemouth at home next weekend knowing anything less than a win could end their title hopes. United travel to Crystal Palace, where they'll need to improve significantly to keep their European ambitions alive.
