Arsenal’s hopes for a Premier League title took another hit as they drew 1-1 with Chelsea at Stamford Bridge. The draw leaves Arsenal winless in their last three league matches.
Chelsea’s Pedro Neto scored a stunning goal from 25 yards out to equalize for the home side, canceling out Gabriel Martinelli’s opener for Arsenal. Neto, who joined Chelsea from Wolves, has become a key player for the Blues, particularly on the left wing. His crossing created several chances for Chelsea in the first half.
Before Neto’s equalizer, Chelsea had controlled the game, playing with energy and bite. Cole Palmer, who had been recovering from a knee injury, nearly scored early in the match with a long-range shot that was saved by Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya.
Arsenal’s best chance of the first half fell to Martinelli, who shot straight at Chelsea goalkeeper Robert Sanchez after Bukayo Saka’s shot was blocked. Former Chelsea player Kai Havertz thought he had scored against his old club in the 33rd minute, but the goal was ruled offside after a VAR review.
Martinelli finally broke the deadlock for Arsenal in the 60th minute, finishing cleverly at the near post after receiving a cross from Martin Odegaard. Odegaard, who was making his first start since September after recovering from injury, found Martinelli at the back post, where Arsenal had outnumbered the Chelsea defense.
Arsenal looked to capitalize on their lead, with Jurrien Timber coming close with a low shot. However, Neto’s stunning goal swung the momentum back to Chelsea. The draw moves Chelsea up to third in the Premier League table.
