Watch: Bruno Fernandes opens the scores as Arsenal draws level in regular time at FA Cup

Reigning FA Cup champion Manchester United squared off against arch-rivals Arsenal at the Emirates as they looked to make their way ahead into the tournament

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Shubhrajit Goswami
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Arsenal faced reigning champions Manchester United at the Emirates Stadium in the FA Cup third round on Sunday. After being eliminated in the third round last season, Arsenal looked to improve their performance this time around. Meanwhile, Manchester United aimed to continue their strong track record.

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The Gunners experienced a difficult match on Tuesday, as their impressive unbeaten streak of 14 games across competitions came to an end with a 2-0 defeat to Newcastle United in the first leg of the Carabao Cup semi-final. This match marked their first game without scoring in six.

On the other hand, Manchester United turned a corner after facing difficulties in their recent matches. After enduring a five-game winless stretch, they broke the cycle with a resilient performance, securing a 2-2 draw at home against Liverpool in the Premier League.

Bruno gave United the lead, and Gabriel equalised 

The match was off to an intense start with Arsenal striker Gabriel Jesus brought down in the 30th minute, resulting in a foul by Martinez. Unfortunately, this required Jesus to be stretchered off the field, and Sterling stepped in as a substitute to continue the game.

Neither team was able to capitalise on their opportunities, and the halftime score remained 0-0.

The breakthrough came when Garnacho sprinted down the right flank, made a smart pass, and Fernandes executed a flawless finish.

Garnacho had a stroke of luck, first as the ball deflected toward him and then when Gabriel stumbled while attempting to recover. Nevertheless, Garnacho's subsequent play was outstanding; he advanced to the edge of the area, drew in a defender, and opted to pass to Fernandes instead of Hojland, who was also positioned to his left. The captain's first-time finish was nothing short of spectacular.

Arsenal struck just seconds after Dalot made his way down the tunnel with a red card. Gabriel netted the equaliser in the 63rd minute. Moments later in the 72nd minute, Hary Maguire conceded a penalty, but Bayındır pulled off a sensational save to keep the reigning champions in contention.

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