Birmingham, England – In a dramatic turn of events at Villa Park, Aston Villa defeated Arsenal 2-1, bringing an end to the Gunners' impressive 18-match unbeaten run across all competitions. Emiliano Buendia's last-gasp strike secured the victory for the home side, sending Villa Park into a frenzy.
The match was a fiercely contested battle between two of the Premier League's top teams. Aston Villa, under the guidance of Unai Emery, started strong, with Matty Cash putting them ahead in the first half. Cash's goal came in the 36th minute, after a cross from Pau Torres deflected off Jurrien Timber and fell perfectly for Cash, who smashed the ball past David Raya.
Arsenal, however, responded in the second half through substitute Leandro Trossard. Trossard, who has been in inspired form recently, scored his third consecutive league goal, leveling the score in the 53rd minute. His goal came after Emiliano Martínez parried a Bukayo Saka effort, and Trossard was there to pounce and slot the ball home.
Both teams had opportunities to win the game, with both goalkeepers, Raya and Martínez, making crucial saves. However, it was Buendia who ultimately decided the match with a goal in the 95th minute. After a goalmouth scramble, the ball fell to Buendia, who fired it into the top corner, sparking wild celebrations at Villa Park.
Arsenal's manager, Mikel Arteta, will be disappointed with the result, especially given the late nature of the winning goal. Arsenal have been dealing with injuries, particularly in defense, and Arteta was forced to field a makeshift backline. William Saliba, Gabriel, and Cristhian Mosquera were all sidelined, forcing Jurrien Timber to play out of position at center-back.
The defeat is only Arsenal's second in 22 games in all competitions this season and their first loss since August 31st against Liverpool. Despite the loss, Arsenal remain at the top of the Premier League table, but their lead has been cut to three points.
Aston Villa, meanwhile, have continued their impressive form, securing their seventh successive victory in all competitions. The win moves them up to second in the table, just three points behind Arsenal, and firmly into the title race. Unai Emery's side has been in excellent form, and their victory over Arsenal is a significant statement of intent.
