Arsenal must improve scoring to end WSL title drought.

LONDON — For 95 minutes, Manchester United appeared to be on the brink of achieving their first win of the season. They played more solidly than they had in previous matches since coach Eva Olid took over, displaying confidence on the ball and capitalizing on a defensive error to take a 1-0 lead.

However, Arsenal had other plans and equalized in stoppage time when Smilla Holmberg, who came off the bench, converted a precise cross from Leah Williamson into the net, igniting the Emirates crowd.

The contrasting emotions were evident: United looked shocked after nearly securing the win, while Arsenal exuded relief after salvaging a point.

United’s goal stemmed from a critical mistake by Georgia Stanway, whose misplaced pass was seized by Julia Zigiotti Olme, who then scored against goalkeeper Misa Rodríguez in a one-on-one situation.

United’s score came from a moment of brilliance paired with good fortune, rather than a well-organized offensive strategy.

The atmosphere at Emirates turned tense as Arsenal was left to contemplate how their missed opportunities had allowed United to take the lead.

Had Arsenal been more clinical, United likely wouldn’t have felt encouraged to push for that goal. In their dismal 5-0 loss to Chelsea the prior weekend, the team quickly lost morale after conceding a goal.

In contrast, this game saw a far more resilient United squad, which had turned things around from a humiliating defeat. Olid noted that the team needed honest discussions after last week’s performance and shifted focus onto defensive training to regain confidence.

“This week, we focused on defensive tactics and basics,” Olid explained. “The attack will follow with time. To implement a new playing style, it’s essential to maintain effort and intensity.” She noted that after the heavy loss, they needed to cultivate a positive mindset and build confidence through solid defensive organization.

Olid’s shift in strategy from prioritizing attack to strengthening defense marked a significant improvement for the team. The earlier struggles may have inadvertently prompted vital reevaluations that strengthened team dynamics.

Nevertheless, they are still not entirely out of trouble. United’s cautious approach was commendable but risky, ultimately leading to a last-minute equalizer.

Arsenal, while not in dire straits, should consider a similar reassessment, especially given their late equalizer. Fans grew frustrated as Arsenal failed to convert their chances effectively, a sentiment echoed on the field.

Having gone goalless since their 1-0 victory over Brighton in their opening match and following a scoreless draw with Crystal Palace, this draw is far from what Arsenal envisioned after a summer of bolstering their squad in hopes of a trophy-laden season.

This stalemate raised concerns about both teams’ progress in the league; they are now falling behind early. Only Manchester City has secured all nine points thus far, leaving United eight points adrift and Arsenal four points behind.

Despite an expanded league of 26 games, a slow start could heavily impact title aspirations. Arsenal’s struggles from last season serve as a reminder that they were too far behind, even when rivals faltered.

With two challenging away games against Chelsea and City upcoming, plus the start of their UEFA Women’s Champions League campaign, Arsenal’s inability to convert chances could be detrimental against strong opponents.

If they aim to break their seven-year title drought, improving their scoring will be crucial.