Arsenal saw their hopes of a late victory dashed as Aston Villa mounted a remarkable comeback from two goals down to secure a 2-2 draw at the Emirates Stadium. Despite initially holding a strong lead, the home side was left frustrated by VAR and a determined Villa performance.
In the closing moments of the match, Mikel Merino’s strike found its way into the net after deflecting off Kai Havertz. However, celebrations were short-lived as VAR intervened, ruling the goal out due to an apparent handball by Havertz. This decision proved to be a major setback for the Gunners, who were desperate for all three points.
Arsenal had seemed firmly in control, especially after extending their lead early in the second half. Gabriel Martinelli opened the scoring before Havertz volleyed in to double the advantage, putting the hosts in a commanding position. Their dominance, however, was short-lived as Villa staged a spirited fightback.
Liverpool’s dramatic stoppage-time victory over Brentford earlier in the day had already put pressure on Arsenal, making this result even more damaging for their title aspirations. With the Reds pulling ahead in the standings, Mikel Arteta’s side desperately needed a win to keep pace at the top of the table.
Villa’s comeback began just minutes after Havertz’s goal, as Youri Tielemans rose highest to head home and reignite his team’s hopes. Soon after, Ollie Watkins capitalized on poor defensive positioning from Thomas Partey, volleying in the equalizer and silencing the Emirates crowd.
With more than 20 minutes remaining, Arsenal threw everything forward in search of a decisive goal. Merino appeared to have delivered it, only for VAR to intervene once more, dashing the home side’s celebrations. The frustration among players and fans was palpable as the clock continued to wind down.
As the match entered stoppage time, Arsenal came agonizingly close to snatching a late winner. Merino struck the post with a powerful effort, and Leandro Trossard was denied on the rebound by Emiliano Martinez, who made a crucial save to keep Villa level.
Despite their relentless efforts, Arsenal had to settle for just a point—a result that leaves them trailing six points behind Liverpool, having played an extra game. Villa, on the other hand, will take confidence from their resilience, securing a hard-fought draw away from home.
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