Arsenal missed the opportunity to close the gap on Premier League leaders Liverpool, settling for a disappointing 0-0 draw with Everton at Emirates Stadium. Despite Liverpool’s earlier draw with Fulham, the Gunners failed to capitalize and remain third in the table, six points adrift of the top, having played one game more.
Mikel Arteta’s side dominated possession, controlling 76% of the ball and attempting 13 shots, but struggled to break down a resolute Everton defense that only managed two shots themselves throughout the match. Everton’s best chance came in the sixth minute when Abdoulaye Doucoure broke free but hesitated, allowing Gabriel to block his attempt.
Arsenal pushed forward relentlessly, with captain Martin Odegaard coming close on two occasions—dragging one effort wide and forcing Jordan Pickford to make a superb save from a deflected shot. Pickford shone again early in the second half, producing a stunning reflex save to deny Bukayo Saka from close range.
Although Arsenal ramped up their intensity in the latter stages, their inability to find a breakthrough left them frustrated. Gabriel Jesus came off the bench with 20 minutes to play but failed to make an impact, extending his goalless run to 23 Premier League games.
Arsenal’s Title Hopes Falter Amid Attacking Struggles
This was a must-win match for Arsenal to keep their title ambitions alive, but their lack of cutting edge in the final third proved costly. The Gunners have now failed to win half of their 16 league games this season, with back-to-back draws following last weekend’s stalemate against Fulham.
Dominating possession was not enough for Arsenal, who lacked the clinical touch in front of goal without a traditional number nine. Despite earning eight corners—having scored a league-high 23 goals from corners since last season—they failed to convert any into a decisive moment.
Bukayo Saka had the hosts’ best opportunity, only to be denied by an outstanding save from Jordan Pickford, who was in stellar form throughout the match. Another clear chance from a corner saw Mikel Merino’s tame header easily collected by the Everton keeper.
Everton, meanwhile, will be pleased with their disciplined defensive performance and hard-earned point on the road. Doucoure had a golden chance early in the game but squandered it, while a late penalty shout involving Vitalii Mykolenko and Thomas Partey was dismissed by both the referee and VAR.
Sitting in 15th place, three points clear of the relegation zone, Everton can take solace in their recent form—losing only twice in their last 11 matches—despite just three wins all season. Arsenal, however, will rue this missed opportunity as they continue to search for consistency in their pursuit of a first league title since 2004.
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