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Arsenal’s ambitions of catching Premier League leaders Liverpool were dealt a severe blow on Saturday as they were held to a 2-2 draw with Aston Villa.
Arsenal suffered a dramatic 2-2 draw against Aston Villa at the Emirates Stadium on Saturday, January 18, 2025, leaving their Premier League title hopes hanging by a thread.
The match started with Arsenal dominating possession but struggling to break down Villa’s resilient defense. It wasn’t until the 35th minute that Gabriel Martinelli broke the deadlock, poking home Leandro Trossard’s cross after goal-line technology confirmed the goal. Arsenal doubled their lead shortly after the break when Kai Havertz volleyed in another Trossard cross, putting the Gunners in control with a 2-0 lead.
However, Villa refused to give up and staged an incredible comeback. Youri Tielemans headed in Lucas Digne’s cross in the 59th minute, sparking hope for the visitors. Just eight minutes later, Ollie Watkins capitalized on a brilliant cross from Matty Cash to equalize the score at 2-2.
In the final minutes, Arsenal pushed for a winner, with Mikel Merino’s shot bouncing into the net, only for VAR to rule it out due to Havertz’s handball. Merino also hit the post in stoppage time, and Trossard missed a golden chance as Arsenal’s efforts to secure the three points fell short.
The draw leaves Arsenal six points behind Liverpool, who have a game in hand, and puts Villa above Manchester City in seventh place. This result is a significant blow to Arsenal’s title aspirations, and they will need to regroup quickly to stay in the race.
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