Arsenal's Premier League title aspirations suffered a significant blow on April 12, 2025, as they were held to a frustrating 1-1 draw by a resolute Brentford side at the Emirates Stadium. 1 This result, compounded by mounting injury concerns, has cast a shadow over their title hopes. Coming into the match on a high following a commanding 3-0 victory over Real Madrid in the Champions League, Arsenal were expected to carry that momentum into their Premier League clash. However, Brentford's disciplined defensive setup proved a formidable obstacle, stifling Arsenal's attacking fluency. The deadlock was finally broken in the 61st minute, thanks to a moment of brilliance from Thomas Partey.
Declan Rice initiated a swift counter-attack, driving forward before laying off a perfectly weighted pass to Partey, who finished with aplomb. However, Brentford responded with resilience. In the 74th minute, Yoane Wissa capitalized on a well-executed set-piece, finding the back of the net to level the score. Earlier in the match, Kieran Tierney thought he had given Arsenal the lead, only to have his goal disallowed by the semi-automated VAR system. The decision hinged on a marginal offside call, with replays showing Tierney's shoulder fractionally beyond the last defender. This contentious decision added to the frustration felt by the Arsenal faithful.
The draw leaves Arsenal trailing league leaders Liverpool by a daunting 10 points, with Liverpool also having a game in hand. Manager Mikel Arteta, visibly disappointed, acknowledged the setback, stating that the Premier League title is now "unlikely" for the Gunners. Adding to Arsenal's woes are mounting injury concerns. Thomas Partey, who scored the opening goal, was withdrawn just eight minutes later with an apparent muscle strain. Ben White and Jorginho also suffered injuries, leaving Arsenal to finish the match with ten men after they had used all their substitutions. These injuries raise serious concerns ahead of their crucial Champions League second-leg clash against Real Madrid.
Player ratings saw Raya receive a 6/10, White a 6.5/10 (injured), Saliba and Gabriel both 7/10, Tierney 7/10, Jorginho 6/10 (injured), Rice 8/10 (assist), Partey 7.5/10 (goal, injured), Saka 6.5/10, Martinelli 6/10, and Jesus 6/10. For Brentford, Raya received a 7/10, Mee 7/10, Pinnock 7.5/10, Ajer 7/10, Roerslev 6.5/10, Jensen 7/10, Norgaard 7/10, Janelt 6.5/10, Mbeumo 7/10, Toney 6.5/10, and Wissa 8/10 (goal). Match statistics revealed Arsenal's dominance in possession with 60% compared to Brentford's 40%. Arsenal also had 14 shots on goal to Brentford's 6, and 7 corners to Brentford's 3. How do you rate Arsenal's title chances after this draw? How concerning are the injury updates? What are your thoughts on the VAR decision?
