Arsenal’s Premier League title ambitions took another hit as they were held to a goalless draw by Everton at the Emirates Stadium. This result comes just six days after a similar disappointment at Fulham, leaving the Gunners with only two points from their last two games.
The stalemate was compounded by Arsenal’s inability to capitalize on Liverpool’s 2-2 draw against Fulham, even after the Reds played with 10 men. The Gunners have now gone three league matches without scoring from open play and remain six points behind Liverpool, having played one game more.
Additionally, Arsenal sits a point behind Chelsea, who face Brentford at Stamford Bridge on Sunday. The full-time whistle was met with a chorus of frustration from the Emirates crowd.
Missed Chances and Frustration
Arsenal dominated possession with 75% in the first half, but clear-cut opportunities were few and far between. Their best chance came in the 30th minute when Kai Havertz’s brilliant pass found Bukayo Saka, who set up Martin Odegaard. The Arsenal captain’s strike, however, was thwarted by a superb Jordan Pickford save. Pickford also denied Gabriel Martinelli just before halftime.
Everton, content to defend, occasionally threatened on the counter. Abdoulaye Doucoure had an early chance but hesitated, allowing Gabriel to block his effort.
Second-Half Struggles
Arsenal pushed for a breakthrough after halftime, with Saka forcing Pickford into action almost immediately. Yet, despite introductions of Ethan Nwaneri, Gabriel Jesus, and Leandro Trossard, the Gunners failed to trouble Everton’s resolute defense, which has now kept four clean sheets in five matches.
A late penalty appeal from Thomas Partey after a challenge by Vitalii Mykolenko was waved away by referee Craig Pawson, with a VAR check offering no reprieve.
Growing Concerns
Arsenal’s inability to deliver in crucial moments is becoming a concern for Mikel Arteta’s side. Their lack of cutting-edge play has left them frustrated and with little room for error in their title pursuit.
The result leaves the Gunners needing a significant response in their next fixture to keep their title hopes alive.
