Gabriel Martinelli’s stoppage-time strike rescued Arsenal in a dramatic 1-1 draw with Manchester City at the Emirates, keeping the Gunners firmly in the title race.

First-Half: Haaland Strikes Early

The match opened with high intensity, and it was Manchester City who drew first blood. In the 9th minute, Erling Haaland latched onto a Tijjani Reijnders counter-attack, calmly slotting past David Raya to silence the home fans. Arsenal struggled to break City’s compact shape, with Pep Guardiola’s men looking dangerous on the break and controlling the tempo after their early lead.

Arsenal’s Fightback

Mikel Arteta’s side gradually grew into the contest, but it was the second half that transformed the narrative. Tactical substitutions proved decisive: Eberechi Eze injected creativity and energy, forcing Donnarumma into key saves, while Arsenal pushed City deeper into their half.

Despite dominating possession — close to 67% overall — Arsenal struggled to find the killer pass until the final minutes of stoppage time.

Martinelli’s Moment of Magic

In the 93rd minute, substitute Gabriel Martinelli etched his name into Arsenal folklore. Pouncing on a loose ball, he executed a delicate lob over Gianluigi Donnarumma to spark wild celebrations at the Emirates.

It was a goal that not only salvaged a point but also highlighted Arsenal’s resilience against one of their fiercest rivals.

Tactical Themes

City’s Defensive Gamble: After Haaland’s opener, Guardiola shifted City into an unusually conservative 5-4-1 setup, inviting Arsenal pressure.

Arsenal’s Depth Matters: Injuries to Gabriel Jesus and Kai Havertz forced Arteta to rotate, but the return of Bukayo Saka and William Saliba boosted the side. The substitutes particularly Martinelli and Eze  turned the game.

Midfield Battle: Ødegaard, returning from a shoulder issue, struggled early but improved as Arsenal pushed numbers forward.

What This Result Means

Arsenal: The late equalizer maintains Arsenal’s unbeaten streak against City and reinforces their growing reputation for grinding out results. It also keeps their Premier League title hopes alive in what promises to be a fierce race.

Manchester City: City will rue their conservative approach after the early lead. Dropping two points despite controlling the game’s early stages raises questions about Guardiola’s tactics.

Key Stats

Possession: Arsenal 67% – City 33%

Shots on Target: Arsenal 5 – City 3

Goals: Martinelli (90+3’), Haaland (9’)

Final Word

This clash lived up to its billing as a Premier League blockbuster. Arsenal’s resilience and Martinelli’s brilliance ensured the points were shared, while City left wondering if sitting back too early cost them all three.

With both sides eyeing the title, this draw may prove pivotal