Arsenal squandered a 2-0 lead as Aston Villa fought back to secure a 2-2 draw at the Emirates. Leandro Trossard shone with two assists, but defensive lapses allowed goals from Youri Tielemans and Ollie Watkins to deny the Gunners victory. Late VAR drama added to Arsenal's frustration.
Arsenal endured a frustrating afternoon as they squandered a two-goal lead to draw 2-2 with Aston Villa at the Emirates Stadium. Leandro Trossard delivered an impressive display, assisting Gabriel Martinelli and Kai Havertz for Arsenal’s goals. However, Villa mounted a spirited comeback with strikes from Youri Tielemans and Ollie Watkins.
The Gunners started brightly, with Martinelli converting Trossard’s cross in the 34th minute to give the home side the lead. Shortly after, Havertz doubled the advantage, volleying in another pinpoint delivery from Trossard. Despite Arsenal’s dominance in the first half, Villa refused to back down.
Youri Tielemans ignited Villa’s revival with a well-placed header from Lucas Digne's cross, reducing the deficit just minutes after Havertz’s goal. Ollie Watkins completed the comeback in the 68th minute, capitalizing on Arsenal’s defensive lapse to smash in the equalizer at the back post.
Arsenal pushed hard for a winner, with Mikel Merino’s late effort ruled out by VAR for a handball by Havertz. The Gunners came close again in stoppage time but failed to convert their opportunities.
The draw leaves Arsenal trailing Liverpool by six points in the Premier League standings, with the latter holding a game in hand. Villa’s resilience highlighted their growing strength under Unai Emery, while Arsenal’s inability to hold their lead raised questions about their defensive discipline and finishing under pressure.