Manchester City’s relentless pursuit of a fifth Premier League title in six years hit a roadblock on Sunday as they were forced to settle for a thrilling 2-2 draw against a resilient Arsenal side at the Etihad Stadium.
The match, billed as a potential title decider, lived up to its hype with both teams trading blows in a pulsating encounter. City drew first blood through Erling Haaland’s ninth-minute strike, but Arsenal responded with a stunning equalizer from Ricardo Calafiori in the 22nd minute.
The Gunners then seized the initiative before halftime when Gabriel Martinelli headed home Bukayo Saka’s corner in injury time. Arsenal’s joy was short-lived, however, as Leandro Trossard was sent off for a second yellow card just before the break.
Despite being a man down, Arsenal held firm and looked set to secure a famous victory at the Etihad Stadium for the first time since 2015. However, City’s relentless pressure paid off in the dying seconds when John Stones bundled home a dramatic equalizer in the 98th minute.
The draw leaves City top of the Premier League table with 13 points after five matches, while Arsenal remain fourth with 11 points. The result also extends City’s unbeaten run against Arsenal to 11 matches in all competitions.
Pep Guardiola’s side will be disappointed not to have secured all three points, but they will take solace in the fact that they showed great character to come from behind against a determined Arsenal team. Mikel Arteta’s men, meanwhile, will be proud of their performance and will believe they can challenge for the title this season.
