Arsenal's draw with Manchester City brought many different emotions with the drama surpassing a Premier League match. Especially with the moment John Stones equalized 2-2 in the last minute of extra time, this confrontation is not like a match in the early stages of the season.
The match between Man City and Arsenal is not simply a domestic match but also has the tone of a Champions League match. The match was reminiscent of the famous confrontation between Jose Mourinho's Inter Milan and Pep Guardiola's Barcelona in the 2009-10 season. At that time, Pep had to submit to the famous "Special One" "parking the bus" strategy.
Only this time, Pep got the late goal he craved. The Citizens show an admirable fighting spirit, a spirit that has helped them overcome many storms in recent years.
Despite the disappointment of the last-minute equalizer, Arsenal can still draw many positives. In fact, the "Gunners" could not win a landmark victory against Man City. That raises doubts about Arsenal's true ability in the title race. However, no one can deny their fighting spirit.
Arsenal faced many difficulties in the match against Man City. Initially, Mikel Arteta's team was behind 1-0 after Man City dominated the game. Despite being overwhelmed for most of the first half, the away team still proved their intelligence and individual quality to overcome difficulties.
Riccardo Calafiori's superb equaliser was a clear demonstration, coming from his quick reaction and courage after conceding a goal. Arsenal took advantage of the change in the situation, stepped up their attacks and put pressure on Man City's defense. That led to Gabriel's goal to take the lead.
Arsenal had moments to show they could make a difference, but Leandro Trossard's red card complicated things. However, this was also the time for The Gunners to show their mettle as a united team.
Referee Michael Oliver's decision completely changed the game, turning it from a fierce clash into a battle between defense and fierce attack. In fact, this match is actually a confrontation between one of the best defensive teams in the world today and the strongest attacking team in the past decade.
In addition, Trossard's red card left Arsenal passive and forced to defend. With 10 men on the pitch, it was difficult to maintain the desired position against any opponent. In particular, Mikel Arteta's team is also facing Man City at the Etihad Stadium.
However, Arsenal played excellently in that situation, both collectively and individually. Goalkeeper David Raya is increasingly proving Arteta's right decision by choosing him over Aaron Ramsdale. Jurrien Timber is gradually asserting himself as a classy defender, while Gabriel continues to shine when blocking Haaland.
The most impressive thing about Arsenal's defense is the ability to narrow the space just when Man City thought they had found an opportunity. This forced the Etihad team to rely on long-range shots from less dangerous players such as Manuel Akanji, Kyle Walker and Ruben Dias. Arsenal forced Man City to use that option and then equalized from a set piece, something Pep rarely relied on.
Arsenal did not get the result they expected, but this match showed their desire to win the championship right from the beginning of the season. Mikel Arteta and his students consider the match against Man City as a match of life and death, a victory could help them gain an advantage in terms of points and spirit in the remaining journey of the season. Unfortunately, the "Gunners" could not stand firm in the final seconds.
