Arsenal’s Premier League title ambitions took a major hit on Saturday as they were held to a 1-1 draw by Brentford, thanks to a late goal from Yoane Wissa at the Emirates Stadium.
Coming off a thrilling 3-0 Champions League victory over Real Madrid, the Gunners entered the match with high spirits. But they couldn’t carry that momentum into their domestic campaign, failing to close the gap on league leaders Liverpool.
Despite Thomas Partey putting Arsenal ahead in the second half, Wissa’s well-taken equaliser means Liverpool remain 10 points clear. With a game in hand and just nine points needed from their final seven matches, Liverpool are poised to secure their 20th English title and their first since 2020.
Mikel Arteta appeared to prioritize the upcoming Champions League second leg against Madrid, making five key changes to his starting lineup. Bukayo Saka, Martin Odegaard, Jurrien Timber, Mikel Merino, and Myles Lewis-Skelly were all rested.
Arsenal started brightly with Gabriel Martinelli forcing an early save from Brentford goalkeeper Mark Flekken. However, the energy and atmosphere seen in their midweek European clash were missing. Brentford nearly took advantage, with Kristoffer Ajer testing David Raya with a dangerous effort.
Kieran Tierney briefly thought he had broken the deadlock, but his header was disallowed by the newly introduced semi-automated offside system. Arsenal continued to press with chances from Oleksandr Zinchenko and Declan Rice, but Flekken stood firm.
The breakthrough came in the 61st minute, when Rice launched a blistering run from Arsenal’s half, eventually setting up Partey for a powerful finish past Flekken.
Arteta introduced Saka, Odegaard, and Lewis-Skelly in hopes of sealing the win, but Brentford fought back. In the 74th minute, Nathan Collins headed down a cross that Arsenal failed to clear, allowing Wissa to smash home the equaliser.
Saka had a late chance to restore Arsenal’s lead but failed to convert, and his stoppage-time attempt curled wide. Jorginho’s injury forced Arsenal to finish the match with 10 men, adding to their frustrations.
With this result, Arsenal’s league hopes seem all but over. Their sights are now firmly set on chasing Champions League glory.
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