Arsenal were forced to settle for a 2-2 draw against Crystal Palace at the Emirates, a result that delays Liverpool’s Premier League title celebrations if only momentarily. While the Gunners extended their unbeaten run to 12 matches in all competitions, the dropped points dealt another blow to any lingering title hopes and confirmed that their focus must now shift fully to their upcoming Champions League semi-final.
The hosts made the perfect start when Jakub Kiwior, left unmarked, thundered home a header from Martin Odegaard’s pinpoint free kick inside three minutes Arsenal’s league-leading 16th goal from a set piece this season. But Palace, who had one eye on their FA Cup semi-final against Aston Villa, responded with resilience and style. Eberechi Eze brought them level in the 27th minute, volleying home Adam Wharton’s clever delivery with precision and flair.
Despite their attacking intent, the Eagles were undone again just before the break. Leandro Trossard, in red-hot form, weaved through defenders and found the net with a composed finish for his fourth league goal in as many games. Arsenal looked poised to grind out a crucial win, especially after surviving a second-half barrage that included near misses from Justin Devenny and Marc Guéhi.
But the match took a dramatic twist late on. Jean-Philippe Mateta capitalized on a rare William Saliba error, dispossessing the Frenchman 35 yards from goal before lofting an audacious chip over David Raya that kissed the crossbar on its way in. The stunning equalizer ensured Palace took a deserved point back to Selhurst Park.
With Bukayo Saka starting on the bench due to a knock and key players like Mikel Merino and Ben White unavailable, Mikel Arteta’s side lacked their usual sharpness in the closing stages. Though Saka’s introduction sparked a late flurry Henderson denying him with a brilliant save Arsenal couldn’t reclaim the lead.
The draw leaves Arsenal 12 points behind Liverpool with only four matches remaining and a far inferior goal difference, meaning the title will almost certainly head to Anfield. Liverpool now need just a single point against Tottenham on Sunday to secure their 20th English crown.
For Arsenal, the silver lining is momentum ahead of their clash with PSG, while Palace can take heart from another spirited display under Oliver Glasner.
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