Arsenal’s Premier League title challenge suffered another setback on Wednesday night as they were held to a 2–2 draw by Crystal Palace at the Emirates Stadium, a result that puts Liverpool within touching distance of the trophy.
Liverpool now require just a single point from their match against Tottenham Hotspur at Anfield on Sunday to secure their 20th league title, drawing level with Manchester United’s all-time record.
Arsenal, who sit second in the table, were twice ahead during the match but failed to see off a Palace side focused on their own cup ambitions. Both teams made changes to their line-ups, with Arsenal eyeing a Champions League semi-final and Palace preparing for an FA Cup semi-final clash.
Jakub Kiwior opened the scoring in the third minute, heading in from a Martin Ødegaard free-kick. Despite a shaky defensive start, Palace responded through a well-worked set piece, with Adam Wharton supplying a chipped pass to the edge of the area. Eberechi Eze struck a volley that bounced past David Raya via the post to level the scores.
Arsenal retook the lead shortly before half-time when Leandro Trossard converted from close range after receiving a pass from Jurrien Timber. The goal was Trossard’s fourth in four league appearances, a timely return to form.
Palace continued to press and were rewarded in the 76th minute. A misplaced pass from William Saliba gifted possession to substitute Jean-Philippe Mateta, who finished with a chipped effort over the advancing goalkeeper.
The draw marks Arsenal’s 13th of the league campaign, a factor that has undermined their bid for the title. With the focus now shifting to their upcoming Champions League semi-final against Paris Saint-Germain, the club’s domestic campaign appears increasingly out of reach.
Key players including Bukayo Saka were rested, while both Mikel Merino and Ben White were absent from the squad due to injury. Arsenal have yet to provide a full update on their fitness status ahead of the European fixture.
Crystal Palace remain 12th in the table and continue to focus on a potential FA Cup final appearance. Their performance at the Emirates showed attacking intent but also defensive frailties, particularly in the first half.
As the season reaches its final stages, Arsenal’s priorities may now lie in Europe, with their title pursuit all but over. Crystal Palace, meanwhile, will take encouragement into their semi-final at Wembley.
