Mansion Sports – The clash between Arsenal and Manchester City at the Emirates Stadium, London, on Sunday, 21 September 2025, unfolded dramatically until the very last minutes.

The Citizens took the lead early through Erling Haaland, but Gabriel Martinelli became Arsenal’s savior by netting a stoppage-time equalizer. The intense duel eventually ended in a 1-1 draw.

Arsenal Hold Back Manchester City’s Ambition

Manchester City started brightly with Erling Haaland scoring in the 9th minute, giving Pep Guardiola’s side an early advantage.

However, their inability to maintain momentum until the end cost them two valuable points. As a result, Manchester City remain stuck in mid-table of the 2025/2026 Premier League standings, currently in 9th place with seven points.

Meanwhile, Arsenal climbed to second place with ten points, five behind league leaders Liverpool who continue to dominate the top of the table.

Tactical Battle: Gyokeres vs Haaland

Arsenal deployed Viktor Gyokeres as their central striker, while Manchester City relied on Erling Haaland to spearhead their attack.

Mikel Arteta’s side sought to control the tempo with their signature short-passing system. Nevertheless, City’s compact defense repeatedly thwarted Arsenal’s offensive efforts.

Instead, City capitalized on transitional moments, with swift counter-attacks led by Haaland and Tijjani Reijnders proving decisive.
It was Reijnders who provided a precise assist, calmly finished by Haaland to put the visitors 0-1 ahead at halftime.

Arsenal’s Adjustments in the Second Half

In the second half, Arsenal introduced several substitutions that brought renewed energy and greater intensity. 

Their attacking threat became evident by the 49th minute when Eberechi Eze almost scored with a powerful long-range strike.

Yet, Gianluigi Donnarumma’s outstanding reflexes denied the effort, keeping City’s narrow lead intact.

Martinelli Emerges as Arsenal’s Savior

Mikel Arteta’s decision to bring on Gabriel Martinelli in the 80th minute proved decisive. The Brazilian forward became the hero of the night.

Deep into stoppage time, at the 90+3 minute mark, Martinelli expertly converted a lofted pass from Eberechi Eze. With composure, he chipped the ball over Donnarumma, who had rushed off his line, leveling the score at 1-1.

The late goal spared Arsenal from a home defeat and simultaneously frustrated Manchester City’s push to climb higher in the standings.