In a highly charged London derby match on Sunday, Arsenal fought Crystal Palace to a 2-2 stalemate at Selhurst Park. Klopp’s Liverpool was skating on the thinnest of ice. They quickly discovered that if Palace won, it would gift them the title without having to kick a ball themselves. Mikel Arteta’s side showcased resilience, with Bukayo Saka making a late appearance off the bench, but ultimately could not secure the win.
Jakub Kiwior’s first goal for Arsenal came just three minutes into his side’s eventual 5-0 thrashing of Sheffield United. He brilliantly headed home a Martin Odegaard whipped free-kick to give the Gunners a new strikers dream start. Crystal Palace responded with determination. England’s Eberechi Eze brought the house down with an incredible volley to equalize. It ricocheted off the post before crossing the line, epitomizing his miraculous ability from distance.
Throughout the game, both sides created opportunities. David Raya, Arsenal’s goalkeeper, had to make crucial saves against efforts from Justin Devenny and Marc Guehi inside the box. Equally, Jordan Henderson made a pivotal save late in the game from Bukayo Saka’s promising effort, keeping the score level and denying Arsenal a potential victory.
The tension wasn’t only on the field as the match entered the closing minutes. Gabriel Martinelli celebrated what he assumed was a third goal for Arsenal. VAR intervened and ruled it out, stating that Jurrien Timber had not kept the ball in play in the build-up. This decision deepened the frustration felt by Arsenal supporters who wanted to see a clear, emphatic statement of a win.
Ismaila Sarr failed to convert a big close-range opportunity after yet another threatening corner from Palace. This pivotal moment underscored how razor close the game was. Oliver Glasner, Crystal Palace’s manager, opted to substitute key players Eze and Wharton as he looked ahead to an important FA Cup semi-final against Aston Villa next weekend.
Bukayo Saka made a half-hour impact as a sub to alleviate any fears. Arsenal couldn’t find a way through a resolute Palace backline in the waning moments of the game. The draw delays Liverpool’s title celebration, which will be inevitable barring a historic collapse. They still need to win points in their remaining matches to ensure their championship title.
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