Arsenal Drop Points at Brentford After Lewis Potter Equaliser | OneFootball

Arsenal Held by Brentford in Tense Title Race Encounter

Arsenal missed the opportunity to re-establish a six point cushion at the Premier League summit after being held to a 1-1 draw by Brentford, a result that could carry weight as the title race intensifies.

Mikel Arteta’s side arrived knowing Manchester City’s midweek win over Fulham had reduced their advantage. Facing a Brentford team beaten only twice at home all season, this always carried the feel of a demanding assignment. What unfolded was a contest shaped by structure, patience, and moments that swung momentum rather than sustained dominance.

Slow Tempo Stifles Arsenal Rhythm

The first half never truly settled into Arsenal’s preferred cadence. Brentford’s organisation restricted central spaces, forcing the visitors wide and limiting the fluency that has underpinned much of their campaign.

Arsenal’s clearest opening before the interval came from a set piece, Gabriel Magalhães rising highest but unable to convert. Arteta handed Eberechi Eze his first league start since December, yet the attacking midfielder struggled to influence proceedings and was replaced by Martin Ødegaard at the break.

The pattern spoke to Brentford’s discipline. Compact lines, intelligent pressing triggers, and an eagerness to disrupt passing lanes ensured Arsenal’s build up lacked incision.

Madueke Moment Sparks Title Hopes

The breakthrough arrived in the 61st minute. Piero Hincapié delivered from the flank, Noni Madueke meeting the cross and guiding his header back across Caoimhín Kelleher into the far corner.

At that stage, it felt potentially decisive. Arsenal had weathered Brentford’s resistance and appeared poised to secure a valuable three points in the title race.

Arteta sought control late on, introducing Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Martinelli and Riccardo Calafiori to inject energy and safeguard the lead.

Brentford Set Piece Strength Strikes Back

Parity was restored just ten minutes later through a familiar Brentford route. Michael Kayode launched a long throw, the flick on causing chaos, Keane Lewis Potter reacting quickest to head home from close range.

It reinforced Brentford’s reputation as one of the division’s most dangerous set piece sides, matching Arsenal in that particular craft.

As the contest stretched, both teams threatened a winner. Igor Thiago was denied by an outstanding Cristhian Mosquera tackle, while Martinelli forced a stoppage time save from Kelleher.

Arteta later reflected on the disorder of the closing stages, saying, “Arsenal let game become chaotic.”

European Push Gains Momentum

Brentford’s performance underlined why they sit seventh, within touching distance of the Champions League places. Keith Andrews’ side blended defensive rigour with purposeful counter attacking.

Lewis Potter and Dango Ouattara carried pace on transitions, while Thiago’s physical presence unsettled Arsenal’s back line throughout. His late chances almost completed the turnaround.

The Bees’ aggressive press forced errors, lifted the crowd, and drove late momentum. Given their strong finish, a victory would not have flattered them.

For a club many tipped for relegation after summer upheaval, talk of a first European campaign now feels increasingly credible.