
Arsenal were held to a 2-2 draw by Crystal Palace at the Emirates Stadium on Wednesday night, in a game that saw Jean-Philippe Mateta score a dramatic late equaliser to deny the Gunners all three points. Mateta's strike also delayed Liverpool’s Premier League title celebrations, as Jurgen Klopp's side had hoped for an Arsenal win to secure the title midweek. However, the draw means Liverpool now need to win against Tottenham on Sunday at Anfield to secure their 20th league title.
The game started with Arsenal taking the lead through a header from Jakub Kiwior, who rose high to meet a pinpoint free-kick from Martin Ødegaard. However, Crystal Palace responded almost immediately, with Eberechi Eze volleying home a fantastic goal, cleverly set up from a training-ground routine.
Arsenal regained the lead before the break when Leandro Trossard finished off a well-controlled ball into the box, giving the Gunners a 2-1 advantage. The game seemed set for Arsenal to claim all three points until disaster struck in the 83rd minute. A wayward pass from William Saliba was intercepted by Mateta, who capitalized on the mistake, lobbing David Raya to score and level the match.
For Mikel Arteta's Arsenal side, this draw means they remain in the race for a top-four finish and a spot in next season’s Champions League, with a crucial semi-final clash against Paris Saint-Germain coming up on Tuesday. Despite some good attacking play, Arsenal's defensive lapses ultimately cost them the win, and they will now look to bounce back as they continue to fight for their place in Europe’s elite competition.
For Crystal Palace, the draw offers a much-needed morale boost ahead of their FA Cup semi-final against Aston Villa this weekend. The point will surely lift spirits in the Palace camp, as they look to build on their recent form.