Arsenal’s Winning Streak Snapped as Sunderland and Man United Steal Late Draws

Can Arsenal Hold Their Nerve in the Title Race?
Arsenal’s impressive 10-game winning streak came to an abrupt end after Sunderland’s Brian Brobbey scored a last-minute equalizer in a thrilling 2-2 draw at the Stadium of Light. Former Arsenal defender Dan Ballard opened the scoring for Sunderland in the 36th minute, ending the Gunners’ run of eight straight clean sheets across all competitions.

Bukayo Saka brought Arsenal level with a calm finish early in the second half, and Leandro Trossard’s powerful strike from the edge of the box in the 76th minute looked set to seal another win. But Brobbey’s late goal, poking in from Ballard’s header deep into stoppage time, denied Mikel Arteta’s side an 11th consecutive victory.

The draw marked Arsenal’s first failure to win since their 1-1 stalemate with Manchester City on September 21. Still chasing their first Premier League title since 2004, the Gunners remain seven points clear at the top. However, Manchester City could narrow that gap to four if they defeat Liverpool at the Etihad, while a Liverpool win would bring them within five points of the leaders.

Arsenal, who have finished as runners-up for the past three seasons, continue to search for their first piece of silverware since the 2020 FA Cup.

How Did Manchester United and Tottenham End Up Sharing the Points?
At the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, Manchester United were also involved in late drama, drawing 2-2 against Tottenham. Bryan Mbeumo put United ahead in the 32nd minute, fueling frustration among home fans who booed their side off at halftime. Tottenham responded in the second half, with Mathys Tel equalizing in the 84th minute before Richarlison’s deflected effort gave them a 91st-minute lead.

However, Matthijs de Ligt salvaged a point for United with a commanding header in the 96th minute, stretching their unbeaten run to five matches. Despite the result, United boss Ruben Amorim admitted, “We have so much to grow as a team because today was our day to win. If we have a little bit more bravery, we can kill this game.” Tottenham manager Thomas Frank agreed improvements were needed, saying, “A lot of things we could have done a bit better. The last goal is all about the urgency, maybe don’t give the cross away and defend better.”

The draw means seventh-placed United have now gone eight games without beating fourth-placed Tottenham, including last season’s Europa League final defeat.

Elsewhere, West Ham boosted their survival hopes with a 3-2 win over Burnley, while Everton snapped a three-game winless streak by beating Fulham 2-0. Chelsea wrapped up Saturday’s Premier League action by hosting Wolves later in the evening.

By Yockshard Enyendi