EPL: Martinelli’s late strike boosts Arsenal’s title chances, as City suffer back-to-back defeat

Gabriel Martinelli’s late strike against Manchester City has given Arsenal the needed boost for the Premier League title race.

Arsenal defeated Manchester City 1-0 on Sunday evening, courtesy of a late stunner from Gabriel Martinelli.

Both teams had just one point separating them before the match, but after the encounter which was keenly contested, the Gunners are now enjoying the second spot in the league table, sharing the same point with Tottenham, while Manchester City have been left reeling in the third position.

The highlight of the encounter came when Mateo Kovacic, despite making two reckless tackles on Martin Odegaard and Declan Rice, escaped a red card.

Referee Michael Oliver opted to show him a yellow card for the first tackle and chose not to penalize him for the second, causing mixed reactions among fans.

The game had seemed like a sure draw, until Martinelli, who had started on the bench due to injury recovery, was brought on at half-time.

His shot at goal deflected off City defender Nathan Ake, and found the back of the net, causing wild jubilation from Arsenal fans.

The win marks the end of Arsenal’s 12-match Premier League losing streak against City while placing them as strong contenders for the league title.

The Gunners are now level on points with fellow north London rivals, Tottenham, who currently lead the table on goal difference. Manchester City, on the other hand, occupy the third position, and have now suffered two league defeats this season.