In a dramatic turn of events, Arsenal edged closer to the top of the Premier League table, narrowing the gap to just four points behind leaders Liverpool, thanks to a stunning late double from substitute Mikel Merino. The Gunners secured a hard-fought 2-0 victory over a resilient Leicester City side, who put up a valiant fight but ultimately fell short at the King Power Stadium.
The match seemed destined for a frustrating stalemate for Arsenal, as their ongoing striker crisis loomed large over the game. With Raheem Sterling struggling to make an impact and Kai Havertz sidelined due to a hamstring injury sustained during the team’s training camp in Dubai, the Gunners appeared to lack the cutting edge needed to break down Leicester’s defense. However, Merino, who came on as a substitute, emerged as the unlikely hero, delivering two crucial goals in the dying minutes of the game.
The breakthrough came in the 81st minute when 17-year-old sensation Ethan Nwaneri, Arsenal’s standout performer on the night, orchestrated a brilliant move. After hitting the woodwork twice earlier in the second half, Nwaneri’s persistence paid off as he set up Merino, who calmly slotted the ball home at the far post. The Spanish midfielder wasn’t done yet, adding a second goal just three minutes from time to seal the victory and send the traveling Arsenal fans into raptures.
Leicester, to their credit, fought tooth and nail throughout the match and came agonizingly close to taking the lead themselves. Myles Lewis-Skelly’s last-ditch intervention denied Bobby de Cordova-Reid a certain goal after Jordan Ayew’s dangerous cross had caused chaos in the Arsenal box. Despite their efforts, the Foxes were unable to capitalize on their chances, leaving them empty-handed in their battle against relegation.
For Arsenal, the win was a mixture of relief and jubilation. The absence of a proven striker has been a growing concern, but Merino’s late heroics ensured the Gunners’ title charge remains firmly on track. As the final whistle blew, the celebrations on the pitch and in the stands reflected the significance of this hard-earned victory.
This result not only keeps Arsenal in the hunt for the Premier League crown but also highlights the depth and resilience of Mikel Arteta’s squad. With young talents like Nwaneri stepping up and unsung heroes like Merino delivering when it matters most, the Gunners are proving they have what it takes to go the distance this season.
