Leicester City vs Arsenal Review
Two late goals from substitute Mikel Merino helped Arsenal maintain their chances of winning their first Premier League title in 21 years, as they defeated Leicester City 2-0 at the King Power Stadium, marking their 15th consecutive unbeaten league match. Arsenal faced a major setback midweek when it was announced that Kai Havertz, their primary center-forward, would be sidelined for the remainder of the season due to a hamstring injury. He joins Gabriel Jesus and Bukayo Sako on the injury list, forcing Mikel Arteta to field out-of-form Raheem Sterling and 17-year-old Ethan Nwaneri alongside makeshift striker Leandro Trossard.
In the first 45 minutes, it was evident that the Gunners struggled with their attacking capabilities. Aside from a Declan Rice header that went just wide, they failed to create any significant chances, resulting in a relatively uneventful afternoon for Mads Hermansen in goal. Leicester, on the other hand, posed little threat, although Wilfried Ndidi did force David Raya into a save from the edge of the box.
The second half started similarly, but as the game neared the hour mark, both teams increased their intensity. Nwaneri emerged as his team’s biggest threat, nearly scoring with a beautiful shot from just outside the box that hit the crossbar. In response, Bobby De Cordova-Reid tested Raya with a powerful shot, but it was an easy save for the Spanish goalkeeper as it was directed right at him. Nwaneri later hit the post with even more intensity, suggesting that any breakthrough for the visitors would likely involve the young player. This turned out to be accurate, as his precise, inswinging cross found Merino, who expertly headed it into the corner like a seasoned striker rather than a central midfielder.
Just six minutes later, Merino calmly finished off Trossard’s cross at the far post, securing the victory. As a result, Arsenal is now only four points behind league leaders Liverpool, who won’t play until Sunday afternoon against Wolves. Meanwhile, the Foxes remain in the relegation zone, two points behind Wolves in 17th place, having lost their last five Premier League matches without scoring.
