Arsenal’s title chase gained momentum with a hard-fought 2-1 win against Fulham in Premier League Round 30 on Tuesday evening. Mikel Merino and Bukayo Saka found the net in the 37th and 73rd minutes, respectively, while Rodrigo Muniz pulled one back for Fulham in stoppage time. The victory lifted Arsenal to second place with 61 points, nine behind leaders Liverpool, as they continue their pursuit of the coveted trophy.
Early Pressure and a Setback
Arsenal started brightly, seeking an early breakthrough. Declan Rice saw his shot deflected, and Thomas Partey fired wide in the sixth minute. However, an injury to defender Gabriel Magalhaes forced a substitution, with Jakub Kiwior stepping in by the 16th minute. Despite the disruption, Arsenal pressed on, nearly scoring when Gabriel Martinelli’s cross set up Ethan Nwaneri, only for Bernd Leno to deny the volley.
Breaking the Deadlock
The Gunners’ persistence paid off in the 37th minute. Merino latched onto Nwaneri’s cross, his shot deflecting off a defender past Leno. Arsenal hunted a second before halftime, but Martin Odegaard’s effort was smothered by Fulham’s defense. The hosts maintained control, though their finishing lacked bite in the closing stages of the half.
Saka Seals the Deal
The second half saw Arsenal intensify their attack. Martinelli teed up Odegaard in the 51st minute, but the captain shot over. Fulham countered through Raul Jimenez, only for David Raya to intervene. The turning point came in the 73rd minute when Saka, back from injury, headed in a pinpoint cross from Merino, assisted by Martinelli, doubling Arsenal’s lead.
Late Drama Falls Short for Fulham
Fulham fought back late, with Adama Traore and Alex Iwobi creating chances. Muniz missed a golden opportunity in the 81st minute, but he redeemed himself in stoppage time, heading in Ryan Sessegnon’s cross. Despite a disallowed Martinelli goal and a tense finish, Arsenal held firm, securing three vital points in their campaign.
