Brian Brobbey's dramatic late goal ensured Sunderland shared the spoils with Arsenal in a 2-2 draw. This result halted Arsenal's pursuit of a fifth consecutive Premier League victory. The Gunners aimed
to extend their lead at the top of the table, but Sunderland had other plans. Dan Ballard, a former Arsenal academy player, opened the scoring for Sunderland in the 36th minute.
Ballard's goal came after Nordi Mukiele set him up with a precise knockdown, allowing him to fire into the net's roof. Arsenal had opportunities to equalise before halftime. William Saliba missed a chance by sending his volley over the bar, and Bukayo Saka shot wide early in the second half. However, Saka capitalised on a mistake by Enzo Le Fee in the 54th minute to level the score.
After Saka's equaliser, Arsenal gained momentum. Martin Zubimendi came close with a flick and a volley that hit the crossbar. Leandro Trossard then put Arsenal ahead in the 74th minute with an impressive long-range effort past Robin Roefs. Despite this setback, Sunderland remained determined and found an equaliser through Brobbey during stoppage time.
The Black Cats' persistence paid off when Brobbey outpaced Gabriel Magalhaes and David Raya to score. Ballard also played a crucial role defensively by blocking Mikel Merino's attempt late in the game, ensuring Sunderland secured a point. This result left Sunderland third in the standings with 19 points.
Sunderland has developed a knack for scoring late goals this season. Brobbey's strike was their fifth goal scored in or after the 90th minute in Premier League matches this season, more than any other team. Three of these goals have changed match outcomes in their favour.
This was also significant for Arsenal as it marked their first concession of a result-altering goal in stoppage time since September 2024 against Manchester City. Before Ballard's opener, Arsenal had not conceded for 812 minutes across all competitions and had not allowed more than one goal in any match this season.
Saturday’s game accounted for 40% of all goals conceded by Arsenal this season across competitions. The draw means that Arsenal’s lead at the top could be reduced to four points by Sunday’s end if results elsewhere go against them.
