In a intense London derby Arsenal concedes a frustrating draw against Fulham (1-1), despite a goal from William Saliba. The Gunners drop two crucial points in the title race.
Under pouring rain, Arsenal was held to a draw by Fulham in a fiercely contested London derby this Sunday afternoon. The Gunners, having secured four consecutive victories, hoped to continue their winning streak. However, they had to settle for a 1-1 draw against a determined and well-organized Fulham side.
Photos : Arsenal/Fulham FC/DR
Difficult start
In the 11th minute, Raul Jimenez opened the scoring for Fulham with an unstoppable cross-shot, taking advantage of a passive Arsenal defense. The Gunners struggled to find offensive solutions despite clear territorial dominance. The first half ended with Fulham leading 1-0.
William Saliba’s equalizer
Returning from the break, Arsenal intensified their efforts. It was finally from a corner that William Saliba found the back of the net, capitalizing on a header from Leandro Trossard in the 52nd minute. This goal revived Mikel Arteta’s men, but they failed to convert their dominance into a second goal.
Photos : Arsenal/Fulham FC/DR
Frustrating end
Frustration peaked in the 89th minute when Bukayo Saka thought he had secured victory for his team, only for his goal to be disallowed due to a marginal offside by Gabriel Martinelli, detected by VAR. This decision left a bitter taste for the Gunners, who lacked the cutting edge to make a difference.
Implications for the standings
This draw leaves Arsenal within reach of Chelsea, who could capitalize on this slip to secure second place. The Gunners also remain under threat from Manchester City, whom they failed to distance. With a Champions League clash against Monaco in three days, this result is a setback for Arsenal.
Match to forget
Mikel Arteta’s players will need to quickly move past this London derby. Despite dominating possession and creating several chances, they were not dangerous enough against a well-organized Fulham team. This draw could weigh heavily in the title race at the end of the season.
Photos : Arsenal/Fulham FC/DR
