Aston Villa delivered a stunning performance to defeat Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium, shaking up the Premier League title race and placing Manchester City in a favorable position.
Despite high anticipation for Arsenal following Liverpool’s unexpected home defeat by Crystal Palace, the Gunners disappointed and were convincingly beaten by Villa. Villa manager Unai Emery enjoyed a successful return to his former club as his team outplayed Arsenal.
13 goals in all competitions for @LeonBailey this season! 👉😏👈 pic.twitter.com/BgBVsalshj
— Aston Villa (@AVFCOfficial) April 14, 2024
Arsenal struggled to keep up with the impressive Villa side, who secured a well-deserved victory to move three points ahead of Tottenham Hotspur in fourth place, although they have played one more game.
Villa dominated the game and hit the woodwork twice through Ollie Watkins and Youri Tielemans before finally breaking the deadlock with a goal from Leon Bailey six minutes from full time.
The DAGGER.
Ollie Watkins’ record-equalling 19th @PremierLeague goal of the season! 🔥 pic.twitter.com/wN1bzBnK9O
— Aston Villa (@AVFCOfficial) April 14, 2024
While Arsenal had their chances, with Villa goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez making a superb save from Leandro Trossard in the first half, Villa sealed their win with a late goal from Watkins, who calmly lifted the ball over David Raya in the 87th minute.
The result capped off a perfect weekend for reigning champions Manchester City, who now lead the table by two points, with Arsenal in second place ahead of Liverpool on goal difference.