Player Ratings: Mikel Merino Inspires Arsenal to Victory at Leicester | OneFootball

Merino Inspires Arsenal to Hard-Fought Win Over Leicester City

Arsenal secured a 2-0 victory against Leicester City at the King Power Stadium, with substitute Mikel Merino delivering two crucial late goals to maintain their push in the Premier League title race. Despite a lacklustre performance for large periods, the Gunners found their cutting edge when it mattered most.

Struggles in Attack Before Merino’s Impact

With injuries decimating Arsenal’s forward line, Leandro Trossard led the attack but struggled to break down a resolute Leicester defence. The Belgian had a handful of half-chances before the break, but it was Leicester who came closest to scoring in the first half, with Wilfred Ndidi steering a shot just wide of David Raya’s goal on the stroke of half-time.

The Gunners emerged with more intent after the interval, with the impressive Ethan Nwaneri twice striking the woodwork. However, a breakthrough remained elusive, and the decision to introduce Mikel Merino from the bench proved decisive.

Merino Makes the Difference

With 10 minutes remaining, Nwaneri, who had been Arsenal’s brightest spark, delivered a pinpoint cross that found Merino, whose header powered past Mads Hermansen to break the deadlock. The Spaniard wasn’t finished, sealing the win in stoppage time with a well-timed tap-in at the back post after a clever passage of play.

Photo: IMAGO

Leicester Left to Rue Missed Chances

Ruud van Nistelrooy’s Leicester were left frustrated after a committed display. Wilfred Ndidi’s first-half miss and Jamie Vardy’s limited opportunities highlighted their struggles in front of goal. The Foxes remained resilient until Arsenal’s late surge, with substitute Woyo Coulibaly impressing after replacing the injured James Justin.

Van Nistelrooy, renowned for his clinical finishing as a player, will be disappointed by Leicester’s wastefulness and inability to capitalise on their few clear chances. Despite their defensive resolve, Leicester could not contain Arsenal’s late onslaught, leaving the Dutchman with much to ponder.

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Arsenal

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