Merino's lone goal proves to be the difference as Arsenal edge past Chelsea

IANS March 17, 2025 97 views

Arsenal secured a crucial victory against Chelsea in a tense London derby at Emirates Stadium. Mikel Merino's strategic header in the first half proved to be the decisive moment of the match. The Gunners demonstrated exceptional defensive skills, holding off Chelsea's late attempts to equalize. This win not only maintains Arsenal's strong league position but also extends their unbeaten streak against their London rivals.

"Merino's solitary goal proved enough as Arsenal held on for the three points" - Match Report
London, March 16: Mikel Merino's first-half header proved to be the difference as Arsenal secured a hard-fought victory over Chelsea in a fiery London derby at the Emirates Stadium on Sunday.

Key Points

1

Merino scores decisive header in 20th minute

2

Arsenal dominates early possession

3

Chelsea unable to break defensive line

4

Gunners maintain second place standing

The Spaniard, starting his sixth consecutive game up front, flicked in Martin Odegaard's corner in the 20th minute to give Arsenal the lead. It was a deserved advantage after a dominant opening period, where the Gunners piled on the pressure with multiple attempts.

From the outset, Arsenal looked dangerous. In the first 20 minutes alone, they registered six attempts. Jurrien Timber came close with a header while Leandro Trossard and Gabriel Martinelli also tested Chelsea's defense. A potential handball from Marc Cucurella was waved away and Declan Rice and Trossard both came close to scoring. The goal eventually arrived when Martinelli won a corner, and Odegaard's delivery was met by Merino, who flicked it past Robert Sanchez.

Chelsea struggled to break through, and although they had some moments of pressure, Arsenal held firm. Their best chance came just before halftime when Cucurella's shot squirmed through David Raya's grasp but narrowly missed the post. In the second half, Merino nearly doubled Arsenal's lead with a powerful volley that Sanchez did well to keep out.

As the match wore on, Chelsea attempted to build pressure but couldn't break Arsenal's defense down. Despite a few nervy moments and a couple of late fouls, the Gunners maintained control and sealed the victory. The result not only kept them firmly in second place but also extended their unbeaten run against Chelsea to seven Premier League games.

In a game full of intensity, Merino's solitary goal proved enough as Arsenal held on for the three points.

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