Holmberg's late strike earns Arsenal Women a point against Manchester United

Smilla Holmberg came off the bench to score a dramatic stoppage-time equaliser for Arsenal Women in a 1-1 draw with Manchester United at the Emirates Stadium. The 90th-minute intervention rescued a point but showed a persistent lack of goals that threatens their title ambitions.

Leah Williamson provided the assist for Holmberg's finish, which came less than a minute from the final whistle. Manchester United had taken the lead through Georgia Stanway in the 67th minute, with Julia Zigiotti Olme setting up the goal. The result leaves Arsenal fourth in the FA WSL with five points from three games, already four points behind leaders Manchester City.

Profligacy persists

Arsenal's profligacy in front of goal has become a recurring theme. Before Holmberg's late strike, the team had not scored since the 10th minute of their opening-day win over Brighton. They followed that with a goalless draw against Crystal Palace and a heavy defeat to Chelsea where they managed only two shots. Against United, sections of the home crowd were heard chanting 'shoot' as chances went begging.

The draw extends Arsenal's unbeaten run to five matches across all competitions, but the two consecutive league draws have stalled their early momentum. They have scored just two goals in three WSL games this season, a rate that must improve if they are to challenge for a first league title in seven years. The club strengthened the squad over the summer, but converting possession into clear chances remains a work in progress.

United's response

Manchester United manager Eva Olid said her team had focused on defensive fundamentals after a 5-0 loss to Chelsea earlier in the campaign. "The focus this week was the defensive shape, tactics in defense and basics in defense," Olid told reporters. She added that the heavy defeat had been a learning experience. "Nobody wants to lose 5-0. We grew as a team. The first day after losing 5-0 is not easy for anyone."

Her side, now on eight points, were minutes away from a valuable away win before Holmberg's intervention. Goalkeeper Misa Rodríguez made several key saves to keep Arsenal at bay for long periods.

What comes next

The challenge for Arsenal intensifies immediately. Their next fixture is a trip to face Chelsea, who are second in the table, on 27 September. That is followed by a visit to league leaders Manchester City, forming a brutal away double-header. Arsenal also begin their UEFA Women's Champions League campaign soon, adding to a congested schedule. Fans can check the upcoming fixtures for full details.

With the WSL expanded to 26 games this season, there is time to address the scoring issues. But the need for a sharper cutting edge is urgent. The point against United keeps them in touch, but performances must now turn into wins. The team's recent form shows three wins and two draws from their last five outings, but the quest for consistent league victories continues.

First reported at ESPN Soccer