Player Ratings as Merino Header Seals Arsenal Win Over Chelsea | OneFootball

Arsenal Grind Past Chelsea to Keep Title Hopes Alive

Hard-Fought Victory at the Emirates

Arsenal edged past Chelsea in a scrappy 1-0 win at the Emirates, securing three crucial points in a game that showcased both sides’ offensive frailties. Mikel Merino’s first-half header proved to be the difference, but Mikel Arteta’s side never fully clicked into gear.

Gabriel Martinelli’s return injected some much-needed pace and directness, while Chelsea’s defensive frailties were compounded by an unconvincing display from goalkeeper Robert Sanchez. However, Arsenal’s ongoing attacking struggles were evident once more, an issue that has persisted even beyond Bukayo Saka’s recent injury absence.

Chelsea’s Attacking Woes Continue

Enzo Maresca’s Chelsea were without a recognised striker, with Nicolas Jackson and Marc Guiu both sidelined. The absence of Cole Palmer further blunted their attack, leaving them lacking a focal point in the final third. As a result, despite Arsenal’s struggles in front of goal, the visitors rarely threatened David Raya’s net.

Photo: IMAGO

Merino’s Header Secures the Points

The decisive moment arrived in the 20th minute when Merino rose highest to nod home from a well-placed delivery. Arsenal were dominant in the opening stages, making the breakthrough seem inevitable. However, rather than pushing on, Arteta’s men found themselves bogged down in a frustrating midfield battle, unable to convert possession into clear-cut chances.

Chelsea, for their part, were equally blunt. Pedro Neto, leading the line, struggled to make an impact, and neither Jadon Sancho nor Christopher Nkunku offered much in terms of penetration from the flanks.

Despite some late Chelsea substitutions, the game fizzled out rather than built towards a thrilling conclusion, a fitting reflection of two sides unable to turn control into goals.

Player Ratings

Arsenal:

Chelsea: