Arsenal’s Premier League title ambitions took a major blow as they squandered a two-goal lead to draw 2-2 at home against Aston Villa. The result leaves the Gunners six points behind league leaders Liverpool, having played a game more than Arne Slot’s side.
Kai Havertz thought he had clinched a dramatic late winner in the 89th minute, but the goal was ruled out after a VAR review confirmed he had handled Mikel Merino’s shot.
How the Game Unfolded
Arsenal appeared on course for a comfortable victory:
- First Half: Gabriel Martinelli capitalized on poor defending by Villa’s Ian Maatsen to bundle home a Leandro Trossard cross.
- Second Half: Trossard turned provider again, delivering a precise cross for Havertz to score his 13th goal of the season, giving Arsenal a 2-0 lead.
However, Villa mounted an impressive comeback:
- 60th Minute: Youri Tielemans headed in Matty Cash’s cross to halve the deficit.
- 68th Minute: Ollie Watkins volleyed home unmarked at the back post after a lapse in Arsenal’s defensive organization.
Villa’s defensive adjustments and attacking intent turned the game on its head, leaving Arsenal stunned and unable to find a legitimate winner.
Defensive Concerns for Arsenal
The absence of William Saliba through injury was evident, as Arsenal’s makeshift defense struggled to cope. Manager Mikel Arteta voiced his concerns:
“Tomorrow we will have more information, but am I worried? Yes, for sure. Especially with the numbers we have in the squad,” Arteta said.
Arsenal’s defensive vulnerabilities were exploited:
- Thomas Partey, playing out of position at right-back, failed to track Watkins for Villa’s equalizer.
- Villa’s second-half substitutes, including Lucas Digne, added dynamism and precision that Arsenal couldn’t handle.
Liverpool Pull Further Ahead
Earlier in the day, Liverpool extended their lead at the top with a late 2-0 win over Brentford, courtesy of Darwin Nunez’s injury-time double. Arsenal had the opportunity to close the gap but ended the day further adrift.
Former Gunner Paul Merson reflected on the title race:
“This is Liverpool’s title to lose now. Arsenal needed to capitalize, but instead, they’ve let Villa back in and allowed Liverpool to widen the gap.”
Villa’s Caution-to-the-Wind Approach Pays Off
Unai Emery’s side showed resilience and ambition in their fightback:
- The introduction of Digne at half-time added creativity, with the Frenchman assisting Tielemans’ header.
- Watkins, criticized earlier in the season for missing chances, demonstrated his value with a clinical equalizer, marking his third goal in five games.
Villa’s defensive frailties remain a concern, with a goal difference of -1 after 22 matches. However, their determination and adaptability were rewarded, moving them into seventh place, just two points off the final Champions League spot.
What’s Next for Arsenal?
Arsenal must quickly regroup as the title race intensifies. Defensive reinforcements and clinical finishing will be key to keeping pace with Liverpool. With Saliba’s fitness in doubt and a lack of squad depth, Arteta faces mounting challenges in the weeks ahead.
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