SOCCER: Man Utd stun leaders Arsenal to open up title race

LONDON — Manchester United weakened Arsenal’s hold on the Premier League title race with a thrilling 3-2 win at the Emirates Stadium on Sunday, thanks to impressive second-half goals from Patrick Dorgu and Matheus Cunha.

Arsenal had the chance to widen their lead at the top to seven points over rivals Manchester City and Aston Villa, both of whom won their matches this weekend. Instead, the Gunners suffered their first home league defeat of the season and left the title race open once again.

The hosts looked in control when they took the lead in the 29th minute through a Lisandro Martinez own goal. But Arsenal’s advantage did not last long.

A costly error from Martin Zubimendi in the 37th minute allowed Manchester United to equalize. The Spanish midfielder passed directly to Bryan Mbeumo, who calmly finished to make it 1-1.

The second half belonged to United. Patrick Dorgu unleashed a powerful shot that struck the crossbar and went in, putting the visitors ahead in the 50th minute.

Arsenal fought back and seemed to have rescued a point when substitute Mikel Merino scored in the 84th minute to level the game again.

However, United had one final moment of magic. Matheus Cunha curled a stunning shot from 25 meters into the net just three minutes later, sending the visiting fans into celebration.

The result leaves Arsenal winless in their last three league matches. They remain top with 50 points from 23 games, while Manchester City and Aston Villa sit on 46 points. Manchester United climbed to fourth place with 38 points.

-Reporting by Martyn Herman; Editing by Toby Davis/Reuters