Arsenal vs Crystal Palace Report

Scorers: Kiwior 3’, Trossard 42’; Eze 27’, Mateta 83’

Title Delay for Liverpool as Arsenal Held at Home

Arsenal postponed Liverpool’s Premier League title celebrations with a 2-2 draw against Crystal Palace, extending their own unbeaten run to 12 matches in all competitions. Despite twice leading in the game, the Gunners were pegged back by a determined Palace side who showed resilience and quality, particularly in the second half. With both teams eyeing key upcoming cup semi-finals, this match served as an ideal, if slightly frustrating, tune-up for what lies ahead.

First Half – Kiwior and Trossard on Target

Needing a win to simply delay Liverpool’s inevitable title crown, Arsenal struck early as Martin Ødegaard’s inviting free-kick was met with a bullet header by Jakub Kiwior, giving the hosts the lead inside three minutes.

But Palace, who have an FA Cup semi-final on the horizon, were anything but passive. Eddie Nketiah headed just wide, and Eberechi Eze levelled the contest with a sublime volley from the edge of the box after some good build-up.

Though Palace looked dangerous on the break, Arsenal regained their lead just before half-time. Leandro Trossard picked up a pass inside the area and fired a low, clinical finish past Dean Henderson for his third goal in two games.

Second Half – Mateta’s Moment of Magic

The second half began slowly, but Palace came to life after the hour mark with a flurry of chances. Justin Devenney, Marc Guéhi, and Ismaïla Sarr all spurned headed opportunities, either failing to connect properly or being denied by Arsenal keeper David Raya. Arsenal substitute Bukayo Saka almost made the game safe for the hosts, but Henderson produced a stunning reflex save to deny him from close range.

Just when it looked like the Gunners would hold on for all three points, disaster struck. William Saliba was robbed of possession by Jean-Philippe Mateta, who unleashed an exquisite 35-yard lob over Raya that kissed the underside of the bar on its way into the net. It was a moment of individual brilliance that salvaged a point for the visitors.

What It Means

While Arsenal are now unbeaten in 43 Premier League matches after scoring first, the draw essentially ends any faint title hopes. Mikel Arteta’s focus will now shift fully to the UEFA Champions League semi-finals against Paris Saint-Germain. As for Crystal Palace, who remain winless in four league matches, the spirited performance will provide momentum heading into their FA Cup clash with Aston Villa.

Key Facts

• Arsenal are unbeaten in 43 Premier League matches when scoring first.
• Leandro Trossard has scored three goals in his last two appearances.
• Jean-Philippe Mateta has scored three goals in his last four appearances for Palace.

What’s Next

Arsenal travel to France to take on PSG in their Champions League semi-final, while Palace prepare for their FA Cup semi-final showdown against Aston Villa at Wembley.

For more info on this game’s outcome, you may also visit:

Arsenal v Crystal Palace, 2024/25 | Premier League