John Stones equalised in the 98th minute to return Manchester City to the top of the Premier League and deny 10-man Arsenal the summit and their first win at Etihad Stadium in almost 10 years.
Centre-back Stones scrambled the reigning champions level after Mateo Kovacic’s shot was blocked to dash the Gunners’ hopes of a win many would have considered a statement result, having absorbed 24 attempts without reply during the second half following Leandro Trossard’s dismissal for kicking the ball away during first-half added time.
Gabriel had headed the Gunners in front from a Bukayo Saka corner for the second time in seven days in the sequence before Trossard was sent off for delaying the restart.
The visitors, who equalised when Riccardo Calafiori curled in from outside the box after 22 minutes in reply to Erling Haaland’s ninth-minute finish, looked to have held off the Premier League top scorer and his notoriously potent team-mates before City came back through Stones at the last.
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“CITY ARE OUT OF JAIL!” 🤯
John Stones gets Manchester City’s equaliser with mere seconds left to play! 💥 pic.twitter.com/owIr7jjkJn
— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) September 22, 2024
“Saka takes… GABRIEL’S IN THERE!” 🔗
Arsenal lead at the Etihad! 🔴 pic.twitter.com/MdliWu94MY
— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) September 22, 2024
Conclusion
What a thrilling match it was at the Etihad Stadium as Manchester City and Arsenal battled it out for supremacy in the Premier League. With twists and turns throughout the game, it was John Stones who emerged as the hero for City with a late equaliser, denying Arsenal a historic win.
The display of resilience from both teams showcased the competitive spirit of the Premier League, leaving fans on the edge of their seats until the final whistle. Gabriel’s goal for Arsenal and Stones’ equaliser provided moments of brilliance that will be remembered for years to come.
As the Premier League title race heats up, it’s matches like these that remind us why we love the beautiful game. Both Manchester City and Arsenal will take valuable lessons from this encounter as they continue their pursuit of success this season.
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