Arsenal’s title hopes suffered a setback as they were held to a 2-2 draw by Aston Villa at the Emirates. The Gunners appeared in control with a 2-0 lead, courtesy of Gabriel Martinelli’s first-half goal and Kai Havertz’s volley early in the second half.
Villa responded quickly, with Youri Tielemans heading in shortly after Havertz’s strike to reduce the deficit. Ollie Watkins then capitalized on a defensive error by Thomas Partey to volley home the equalizer, stunning the home crowd.
Arsenal thought they had secured a late winner when Mikel Merino’s shot deflected off Havertz and into the net, but VAR overturned the goal for a handball by Havertz. The frustration continued as Merino hit the post in the closing minutes, and Leandro Trossard’s rebound was denied by Villa goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez.
The result leaves Arsenal six points behind Liverpool in the title race, having played one more game. Despite seven minutes of added time and relentless pressure, Arsenal failed to find a winner, and Villa held on for a valuable point.
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