Premier League: Arsenal 2 (Martinelli 35, Havertz 55), Aston Villa 2 (Tielemans 60, Watkins 68) Arsenal’s Premier League title aspirations suffered a significant setback as they squandered a two-goal lead to draw 2-2 with Aston Villa at the Emirates Stadium.

Gabriel Martinelli gave the Gunners the lead in the first half, with Kai Havertz doubling their advantage 10 minutes after the interval. However, Aston Villa staged a remarkable comeback, with Youri Tielemans reducing the deficit just four minutes later and Ollie Watkins equalising in the 68th minute.

The drama continued late in the match when Havertz thought he had secured the winner, only for VAR to rule out his goal due to handball. The draw leaves Arsenal trailing six points behind Liverpool, who claimed a late victory at Brentford.

First Half: Arsenal in Control

Villa struggled to gain a foothold in the match early on, with Arsenal dominating possession. The visitors had the first attempt on target through Ian Maatsen, but David Raya dealt with it comfortably.

The Gunners responded five minutes later when Leandro Trossard forced Emiliano Martínez into a sharp save. Trossard, instrumental throughout the match, created Arsenal’s opener with a precise cross that Martinelli converted on the volley. Although Martínez initially saved the effort, goal-line technology confirmed the ball had crossed the line.

Moments later, Trossard had an opportunity to double Arsenal’s lead but fired over the crossbar, leaving the hosts with a slim 1-0 lead at the break.

Second Half: A Game of Twists

Arsenal extended their advantage in the 55th minute as Trossard delivered another inch-perfect cross, which Havertz volleyed home to score a crucial goal following his recent struggles.

However, Villa quickly responded with Tielemans heading in Lucas Digne’s cross to halve the deficit. Tielemans nearly levelled the match moments later, but his powerful strike hit the post, giving Arsenal a temporary reprieve.

The reprieve was short-lived, as Matty Cash delivered a pinpoint cross from the right, allowing Watkins to volley home unmarked from six yards, stunning the Emirates crowd.

Late Drama and Disappointment

Arsenal pushed for a winner, and Havertz believed he had found it when he redirected Mikel Merino’s shot past Martínez. The Emirates erupted in celebration, only for VAR to disallow the goal due to handball.

In the dying moments, Merino struck the woodwork, and Martínez made a crucial save to deny Trossard’s follow-up. Trossard then missed a golden opportunity in stoppage time, dragging his shot wide and leaving Arsenal to settle for a frustrating draw.

Key Takeaways

Former Arsenal manager Unai Emery once again proved a thorn in the Gunners’ side, orchestrating a comeback that mirrored Villa’s 2-0 win at the Emirates last April, which derailed Arsenal’s previous title charge.

With William Saliba sidelined and squad depth under scrutiny, Arsenal must regroup quickly as their title hopes hang in the balance.

For Aston Villa, the draw showcased their resilience, with Watkins and Tielemans delivering standout performances. Arsenal, meanwhile, face the challenge of maintaining their composure and consistency in the intense Premier League title race.