Joao Pedro’s second-half penalty dents Arsenal’s title pursuit as Brighton hold the Gunners to a draw.
Arsenal initially took the lead in the 16th minute through Ethan Nwaneri, who was making only his second Premier League start. The 17-year-old executed a clever one-two with Mikel Merino and Declan Rice before unleashing a shot that squirmed past goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen into the far corner.
Despite their early dominance, Arsenal failed to extend their advantage, a shortfall they would regret. Just after the hour mark, Brighton equalized when Joao Pedro converted a penalty following a controversial decision. The penalty stemmed from an unusual moment in which Pedro flicked the ball up, and William Saliba, attempting to clear it with a header, collided with Pedro’s head. The Brazilian forward went to ground, prompting a review by the Video Assistant Referee (VAR), who ruled sufficient contact had been made for a spot-kick. Pedro coolly slotted the penalty, sending David Raya the wrong way.
Brighton came close to taking the lead when substitute Yankuba Minteh curled a shot just wide from inside the area. Ultimately, the draw leaves Arsenal five points adrift of league leaders Liverpool, who have played two fewer games, raising concerns over Arsenal’s fading title challenge.
Nwaneri Shines but Raises Worries
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta was forced to shuffle his squad, with Kai Havertz sidelined by illness and captain Martin Odegaard only fit enough for a substitute role. The absence of Bukayo Saka due to a hamstring injury compounded Arsenal’s challenges, yet they controlled the early stages of the match.
Despite their dominance, the Gunners lacked cutting-edge creativity in front of goal. In Saka’s absence, Arteta turned to teenage sensation Ethan Nwaneri. The youngster showcased sharpness and confidence on the ball, earning the trust of his teammates. However, he also made some risky decisions, reflective of his ongoing development as he transitions to senior football.
Nwaneri’s goal made him the first Arsenal player to score multiple Premier League goals before turning 18. While Arteta praised his performance, the teenager was substituted at halftime due to “muscular issues.” His fitness remains uncertain, adding to Arsenal’s growing list of injury concerns.
The Gunners’ inability to capitalize on their dominance and close out games is worrying, as they risk falling further behind Liverpool in the title race, with the gap looking increasingly insurmountable.
Brighton Finding Form After a Slump
Despite a dip in form earlier in the season, Brighton demonstrated resilience and potential against Arsenal. Their willingness to fight back and create chances after conceding early showcased their character.
Joao Pedro’s composure from the penalty spot and Yankuba Minteh’s near-miss highlight the attacking threats Brighton possess. The Seagulls are beginning to rediscover their identity and remain a team capable of challenging even the league’s top sides.
Although they currently sit mid-table, performances like this suggest Brighton could finish strongly as the season progresses.
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