London - Arsenal charged back into the title race in the English Premier League on Saturday with a brilliant 2-1 victory over champions Manchester United.

Samir Nasri scored both goals to lift Arsenal above United into third, three points behind Chelsea and Liverpool at the top.

Dimitar Berbatov had a goal ruled out early on for offside and Wayne Rooney had a chance, while at the other end, Nicklas Bendtner missed a great opportunity.

But on 22 minutes, Arsenal were ahead as United only half-cleared a Cesc Fabregas ball and Nasri's left-foot volley took a wicked deflection off Gary Neville to take it past Edwin van der Sar.

Arsenal withstood a strong appeal for a penalty against Gael Clichy for a hand-ball as they kept their lead to half-time.

And Arsene Wenger's side doubled their lead three minutes into the second half after a lovely move that ended with Nasri lashing the ball into the corner.

United chased a goal to get themselves back into the match and Cristiano Ronaldo missed a great chance, volleying wide from close range.

As time ticked away, it looked as if United would not get back into it, but defender Rafael pulled one back with a sensational finish on 89 minutes, chesting the ball down and smashing a left-foot volley into the corner.

Six minutes of time was added on but Arsenal hung on to take all three points.

With Chelsea not playing until Sunday, Liverpool can go three points clear at the top if they can beat West Bromwich Albion later on Saturday. (dpa)