In a convincing win at the Emirates, Roberto De Zerbi’s Brighton and Hove Albion all but ended Arsenal’s chances of winning the Premier League title.
Brighton scored three goals through Julio Enciso, Deniz Undav, and Pervis Estupinan, leaving Mikel Arteta’s side four points behind Manchester City, who have played one game less.
City can secure their third successive title with a win over Chelsea next week. On the other hand, if Arsenal loses to Nottingham Forest a day before Pep Guardiola’s side plays chances can be similar for City. Arsenal needed to respond after City’s win against Everton but put on a lethargic display, falling further behind the leaders.
After a dull opening 15 minutes, the hosts showed some attacking impetus with Martin Odegaard, Gabriel Jesus, Leandro Trossard, and Bukayo Saka all taking shots at Brighton’s goal. However, De Zerbi’s team remained a threat on the counter with Enciso and Kaoru Mitoma causing problems for Arsenal’s defense.
Enciso eventually put Brighton ahead with a header in the 51st minute, and despite trading chances, Arsenal failed to find a way past Brighton’s goalkeeper, Jason Steele. In their attempt to play out from the back, Arsenal sealed their own fate, as Trossard’s pass was intercepted by Undav, who expertly chipped the ball over Aaron Ramsdale to put his side in the driving seat.
Estupinan completed the scoreline in the 96th minute when Ramsdale parried Undav’s powerful strike, and the ball fell kindly in front of the Ecuadorian, who made no mistake.
The loss to Brighton means that Arsenal has only won two of their last seven league games, ending their title charge in just a few weeks. Their next game against Nottingham is crucial if they hope to extend the race for another day.
