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HomeFootballWilliam Saliba’s Goal Not Enough as Arsenal Settle for Draw

William Saliba’s Goal Not Enough as Arsenal Settle for Draw

In a dramatic Premier League clash at Craven Cottage, Arsenal’s three-match winning streak came to an abrupt halt as they were held to a frustrating 1-1 draw by Fulham.

The Gunners, riding high after a string of dominant victories, found themselves unable to break down a resolute Fulham side despite dominating possession and creating numerous chances.

This gripping encounter had all the hallmarks of a classic Premier League showdown—early goals, near-misses, and the dreaded intervention of VAR. But for Arsenal fans, it was a day of “what could have been,” as their side missed the chance to close the gap on league leaders Liverpool.

Arsenal came into this game full of confidence after a convincing 2-0 win over Manchester United midweek. However, it was Fulham who shocked the visitors with an early goal.

In the 11th minute, Raul Jimenez capitalized on a brilliant long pass from Kenny Tete. The Mexican striker found himself with acres of space, charging down the right before unleashing a clinical low shot past David Raya to give Fulham a surprising 1-0 lead. The Gunners, dominant in possession, were left stunned as Jimenez celebrated his first Premier League goal of the season.

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Arsenal pushed back immediately, with Declan Rice and Bukayo Saka looking particularly sharp. However, despite registering 0.59 xG in the first half, Arsenal couldn’t find the back of the net. Fulham, on the other hand, had just 0.03 xG from their solitary chance—but it was enough to head into halftime with the lead.

Second Half: Arsenal’s Fightback and VAR Drama

Mikel Arteta’s halftime talk seemed to spark life into the Gunners. Just seven minutes into the second half, William Saliba equalized for Arsenal after a well-executed corner routine. Declan Rice’s pinpoint delivery was headed back across goal by Kai Havertz, and Saliba tapped it home from close range. After a lengthy VAR check for a potential offside, the goal stood, bringing Arsenal level at 1-1.

The Gunners pressed on, creating multiple chances to take the lead. Declan Rice was instrumental, showcasing his all-around abilities with sharp passing, timely interceptions, and a couple of well-struck shots that tested Fulham’s goalkeeper Bernd Leno. Despite Arsenal’s 1.93 xG by the final whistle, the crucial winner eluded them.

The most dramatic moment came in the dying minutes when Bukayo Saka appeared to score the winner, heading in a Martinelli cross at the far post. The away fans erupted in celebration, only for VAR to intervene and rule the goal out due to a marginal offside in the buildup. The decision left Arsenal fans heartbroken and ensured Fulham would hold on for a valuable point.

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Despite the disappointing result, Declan Rice was a standout performer for Arsenal. The England midfielder was involved at both ends of the pitch, contributing two key chances and attempting two shots himself. He was also a defensive rock, winning tackles and regaining possession multiple times. His consistency continues to justify his status as one of the Premier League’s most influential midfielders.

For Fulham, Bernd Leno was the hero. The former Arsenal goalkeeper made several crucial saves to deny his old club, particularly from Rice, Havertz, and Trossard. His commanding presence between the sticks was vital in keeping Fulham in the game.

The draw sends Arsenal into second place in the Premier League table, albeit having played a game more than the teams around them. However, the six-point gap to Liverpool remains, and with the Reds in imperious form, Arsenal’s title ambitions have taken a hit. The Gunners will need to regroup quickly, as every dropped point could prove costly in the race for the title.

Fulham, meanwhile, dropped to 10th despite a spirited performance. At halftime, they were on course to climb as high as fifth, but Saliba’s equalizer and other results saw them slide back down the table. However, this gritty performance against one of the league’s top sides will boost their confidence moving forward.

 

 

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