Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal secured a crucial 1-0 win over Chelsea, despite being 12 points behind leaders Liverpool. The victory marked their first in four league games and provided a much-needed boost to the title hopefuls.
The match got off to a lively start, with both teams creating chances in the opening 20 minutes. However, it was Chelsea’s defensive woes that proved costly, as Mikel Merino scored the only goal from a corner in the first half. The Italian side struggled to find inspiration without talisman Cole Palmer and were left looking toothless.
Arsenal goalkeeper Robert Sánchez was at fault for several of Chelsea’s chances, but his team was grateful for any assistance they could get after dropping points against West Ham, Nottingham Forest, and Manchester United in their previous games. Arteta refused to give up hope that it could still be Arsenal’s year, saying “we have to win our football matches.”
The second half saw Chelsea start to frustrate Arsenal, but the visitors’ profligacy ultimately kept them at bay. Merino’s goal proved enough to secure a vital three points for Arsenal, who can now head into the international break with renewed confidence.
With a Champions League quarter-final against Real Madrid looming, all that matters is the result. Mikel Arteta’s side will be delighted with the win and hope Chelsea will rediscover their form before it’s too late.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/football/2025/mar/16/arsenal-chelsea-premier-league-match-report