Martinelli Magic Saves Arsenal at the Death
For a long time, it looked like Manchester City had done just enough. Erling Haaland’s early strike had them on course for a precious away win, while Pep Guardiola’s side sat deep and defended with everyone behind the ball. But in stoppage time, Gabriel Martinelli delivered the moment that sent the Emirates into chaos.
Haaland strikes early
The opening goal came inside ten minutes, and it was pure Haaland. With Arsenal pressing high, the Norwegian star spun into space, linked up with Tijjani Reijnders, and powered through before slotting past David Raya. It was his seventh goal in six games this season – clinical, inevitable.
City had their lead, and from then on Guardiola turned cautious. His team closed ranks, packed midfield, and slowed the tempo. Arsenal had the ball but couldn’t carve out clear chances. Their best first-half moment came when Noni Madueke tested Gianluigi Donnarumma with a fierce shot, but the keeper stood firm.
Arsenal turn to the bench
Mikel Arteta, frustrated by his side’s lack of spark, made bold changes at the break. On came Eberechi Eze and Bukayo Saka, back from injury, to inject energy and creativity. Arsenal suddenly looked more dangerous, with Saka lively on the right and Martín Zubimendi firing over from distance.
City still threatened on the break – Haaland could have doubled the lead after being played through by Jérémy Doku, but Raya kept Arsenal alive with a sharp save. Guardiola’s response? Even more defence. Nathan Aké came on, then Haaland himself was substituted as City switched to a 5-4-1.
Last-minute lifeline
The tension inside the stadium was unbearable as the clock ticked down. Arsenal threw everything forward – Arteta even loaded the pitch with attacking midfielders, desperate for a breakthrough.
Finally, it came. Eze spotted Martinelli darting behind City’s backline and floated a perfect ball into his path. The Brazilian’s finish was sublime: one touch, outside of the boot, lifting it over Donnarumma into the far corner.
The Emirates erupted. Relief, joy, chaos. Arteta sprinted down the touchline in celebration as if Arsenal had won the match.
What it means
A 1–1 draw wasn’t the result Arsenal wanted, but given the context – chasing the game, facing Guardiola’s ultra-defensive setup – it felt huge. City will be frustrated after sitting deep for so long, only to be denied at the death.
For Arsenal, Martinelli’s strike was more than a goal. It was a statement: they refuse to quit.
