By Victor Samson
Arsenal’s Premier League title ambitions suffered a significant setback on Thursday night as they were held to a frustrating 1-1 draw by Brentford, missing the chance to restore their six-point cushion at the top of the table.
The Gunners, under pressure after Manchester City’s emphatic win over Fulham 24 hours earlier, looked nervy and disjointed in a poor first half. Mikel Arteta’s side failed to register a single shot on target before the break, with Eberechi Eze enduring a particularly torrid evening. Handed a rare opportunity in midfield due to injuries, Eze struggled badly, appearing short of confidence, and was withdrawn at half-time after contributing little to Arsenal’s play.
The introduction of Martin Odegaard sparked some improvement, and Arsenal eventually broke the deadlock just after the hour mark. Noni Madueke rose brilliantly at the back post to head home Piero Hincapie’s cross, a moment of quality that briefly lifted the visitors. Yet Brentford, resilient and determined, responded superbly. Keane Lewis-Potter’s powerful header 19 minutes from time levelled the contest, and the hosts could have snatched victory late on, with Igor Thiago twice going close. Arsenal themselves wasted a golden chance in stoppage time when Gabriel Martinelli failed to convert.
David Raya made a crucial save to deny Thiago after his own error, but was under constant pressure from Brentford’s set pieces.
Gabriel Magalhaes Arsenal’s standout defender, is strong in duels and produces key blocks despite an early booking.
Piero Hincapie provided attacking width and delivered the cross for Madueke’s goal.
Declan Rice Arsenal’s most composed midfielder in a poor first half, though wasteful with a chance at 1-0.
Eberechi Eze Anonymous throughout, hooked at half-time, and symbolic of Arsenal’s lack of spark.
Noni Madueke was quiet overall but produced the game’s highlight with his superb header.
Martin Odegaard Improved Arsenal’s tempo but was culpable for losing Lewis-Potter on the equaliser.
The draw leaves Arsenal ruing a missed opportunity to strengthen their grip on the title race. With City breathing down their necks, the Gunners’ inability to impose themselves against Brentford highlights lingering concerns about their consistency under pressure. Brentford, meanwhile, deserved full credit for their resilience and attacking intent, ensuring Arsenal’s night ended in disappointment
