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Arsenal’s Premier League title aspirations suffered a setback as they squandered a two-goal lead, settling for a 2-2 draw against Aston Villa. Despite dominating possession and creating numerous chances, the Gunners were unable to secure the a much needed win.
The match began with Arsenal controlling the tempo, seeking openings in Unai Emery’s well-organized Villa team. Lan Maatsen came close to giving Villa the lead, forcing a solid save from David Raya in the 15th minute. Leandro Trossard then tested Emi Martínez at the other end, as both sides created chances in a lively opening spell.
Arsenal’s persistence paid off when Gabriel Martinelli opened the scoring in the 32nd minute, despite Martínez’s best efforts. The goal was confirmed by goal-line technology, as Martinelli stole in front of Maatsen to get his foot to the ball first.
The Gunners deserved their lead and looked to double it, which they did through Kai Havertz ten minutes after halftime. Trossard took on Matty Cash in a race on the left wing and delivered into the path of Havertz, who scored with a first-time shot that went in off the knees of a befuddled Martínez.
However, Villa responded just five minutes later, with Youri Tielemans pulling one back to reignite the contest. Digne’s cross into the near post was met by the diving head of Tielemans, who bravely got in ahead of Merino to beat Raya.
Arsenal pushed to restore their two-goal cushion, but instead, Villa struck again, with Ollie Watkins scoring the equalizer to make it 2-2. The goal stunned the Emirates, forcing Arsenal into a frantic search for a winner.
Villa, however, defended heroically and continued to threaten on the counter. Mikel Merino thought he had snatched the winner, but his effort was ruled out after Kai Havertz’s hand was judged to have interfered.
Merino came close again, striking the post, as Arsenal’s frustrations mounted. Trossard also had a golden chance to secure victory, but he put his effort wide with only the goalkeeper to beat, summing up a frustrating night for the Gunners.
The draw marked Arsenal’s fourth home game in 12 days, and they will look to bounce back in their Champions League match against Dinamo Zagreb on Wednesday. They will then face Wolves in the Premier League next Saturday.
