Pedro Neto salvaged a point for Chelsea in a dramatic 1-1 draw with Arsenal at Stamford Bridge, further denting the Gunners' Premier League title aspirations. Mikel Arteta’s side had taken the lead through Gabriel Martinelli’s second-half goal, but Neto’s equalizer 10 minutes later ensured Chelsea secured a share of the spoils.
Arsenal had been in front following Martinelli’s strike at the hour mark, a clever pass from Martin Ødegaard setting him up for a close-range finish that beat Chelsea keeper Robert Sanchez. However, Neto’s quick response for Chelsea thwarted the visitors' hopes of a vital victory, with the Portuguese winger cutting inside from the right to fire a low shot into the bottom corner from 25 yards.
This draw means Arsenal have now gone four Premier League matches without a win, following recent setbacks against Inter Milan in the Champions League and a loss at Newcastle. The Gunners have won only three of their last nine league games, raising doubts over their title credentials after coming close to winning the Premier League last season.
Meanwhile, Chelsea, currently sitting third, remain above Arsenal on goal difference and have nine points to make up on leaders Liverpool. Despite Maresca's earlier claims that Chelsea are not yet ready to challenge for the title, the team has shown marked improvement under his guidance. This draw, despite missing out on a first Stamford Bridge win over Arsenal in six years, is seen as another step in the right direction for the Blues.
Both teams have had their share of opportunities in the game. Chelsea’s Cole Palmer tested Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya early on with a powerful 25-yard drive, while Gusto missed a golden chance when Neto’s cross found him in front of goal. Arsenal, on the other hand, had a narrow escape when Kai Havertz thought he had opened the scoring, only for a VAR review to rule him offside.
In the second half, Chelsea continued to press, with Wesley Fofana coming close after a volley from Noni Madueke's cross. But Arsenal capitalized on some good play, with Ødegaard’s vision helping to set up Martinelli’s opener. The assist marked a return to form for Ødegaard, who had recently recovered from an ankle injury.
Despite strong performances from Arsenal's attacking players, Chelsea’s persistence paid off with Neto’s equalizer, and the draw leaves Arsenal with more questions than answers as they approach the international break.
For Chelsea, the result boosts confidence as Maresca’s young squad continues to exceed expectations, with the team hoping to build on this performance in the coming weeks.
