In a dramatic twist at the Theatre of Dreams, Manchester United's Bruno Fernandes suffered a nightmare moment, squandering a golden opportunity from the penalty spot that ultimately proved decisive in a tight contest against title-chasing Arsenal.
The Portuguese midfielder, usually so reliable from 12 yards, sent his first-half spot-kick soaring over David Raya's crossbar in what became the defining moment of the match. The miss proved incredibly costly as Leandro Trossard's solitary goal just before the break secured all three points for the Gunners.
Erik ten Hag's side were awarded the penalty after a lengthy VAR review confirmed Sofyan Amrabat had been caught by Arsenal's Thomas Partey. With regular penalty taker Marcus Rashford substituted, the responsibility fell to captain Fernandes, who uncharacteristically blasted his effort high into the Stretford End.
The result leaves Manchester United languishing in eighth position in the Premier League table, their hopes of European qualification hanging by a thread. For Mikel Arteta's Arsenal, the victory keeps them firmly in the title race, just one point behind leaders Manchester City with one game remaining.
United's dismal season hit a new low as they registered their 14th league defeat of the campaign, equalling their worst-ever Premier League record. The performance drew boos from sections of the home support at full-time, with pressure mounting on Ten Hag's position as manager.
