Arsenal will be ruing missed opportunities as they let a two-goal lead slip against West Ham at London Stadium.
The Gunners went 2-0 up within the first 10 minutes of the game, with Gabriel Jesus and Martin Odegaard finding the back of the net. However, their dominance did not last long as a penalty from Said Benrahma saw the Hammers get back into the game.
Arsenal’s Bukayo Saka then missed a spot-kick, which proved to be costly, as West Ham capitalized on the mistake to equalize through Jarrod Bowen.
The result was a major setback for Mikel Arteta’s side, who were hoping to maintain their position at the top of the Premier League table. With Manchester City breathing down their necks, Arsenal cannot afford to drop points in the run-in.
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The Gunners had started the season slowly but had picked up momentum in recent weeks, putting together a series of impressive performances. However, their inability to see out the game against West Ham will be a cause for concern for Arteta and his coaching staff.
Arsenal began the game with real intent and were soon rewarded for their attacking play when Jesus scored at the back post following a combination play between Ben White and Odegaard.
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Odegaard then doubled the lead with a superb volley from Gabriel Martinelli’s cross. However, the Gunners’ inability to defend their lead saw West Ham come back into the game, and the momentum shifted in favor of the home side.
The missed penalty from Saka was a turning point in the game, and it was one of many chances that Arsenal failed to convert. The Gunners had numerous opportunities to put the game to bed but were unable to take their chances, and in the end, they were made to pay for their profligacy in front of goal.
The draw against West Ham means that Arsenal’s lead at the top of the Premier League has been cut to just four points.
Manchester City, who are in second place, are hot on their heels, and Arsenal cannot afford to slip up in the remaining games of the season.
The Gunners have shown that they have the quality to challenge for the title this season, but they need to be more ruthless in front of goal and more disciplined at the back if they are to maintain their position at the top of the table.