Despite holding the edge for much of the game, Arsenal couldn’t shake off the determined visitors.
Image credit: Arsenal
In a thrilling encounter at the Emirates, Arsenal were held to a 2-2 draw by a spirited Crystal Palace side, a result that puts Liverpool within touching distance of the Premier League title.
With the Gunners chasing a late surge for silverware, they now sit 12 points behind leaders Liverpool.
Liverpool who had plans in place to celebrate clinching the Premier League title if Arsenal lost will have to wait a little longer to seal their 20th top-flight crown with just a point against Tottenham on Sunday.
Early Fire, Late Fizzle
Mikel Arteta’s men came out firing with Jakub Kiwior nodding home an early goal in the third minute off a precise free-kick from captain Martin Ødegaard.
But the momentum shifted quickly as Palace grew into the game.
Eberechi Eze answered back in the 27th minute with a technically brilliant volley that bounced off the turf and in off the post, courtesy of a clever set-piece from Adam Wharton.
Before the break, Leandro Trossard restored Arsenal’s lead after receiving a slick pass from Jurrien Timber and finishing low into the bottom corner—his fourth goal in as many league games.
Mateta Magic and Arsenal’s Defensive Woes
Despite holding the edge for much of the game, Arsenal couldn’t shake off the determined visitors.
Palace capitalized on a sloppy pass from William Saliba in the 83rd minute, as substitute Jean-Philippe Mateta intercepted and coolly chipped the ball over a helpless David Raya to equalize.
That moment encapsulated Arsenal’s recurring issue this season—defensive lapses at crucial moments.
Looking Ahead: Europe on Everyone’s Mind
With both clubs having one eye on upcoming semi-final clashes—Arsenal in the Champions League and Palace in the FA Cup—rotations were expected.
Notably, Arsenal were without key players Ben White and Mikel Merino due to injuries, while Bukayo Saka was rested as a precaution.
Arteta experimented by placing Trossard in the central striker’s role, likely a preview of what’s to come against PSG next Tuesday.
Merino’s absence may also force the Spaniard into midfield action due to Thomas Partey’s suspension.
Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner, meanwhile, fielded a solid XI but kept top scorer Mateta on the bench, likely saving him for the FA Cup showdown with Aston Villa.
