Arsenal secured a narrow 2-1 victory over Chelsea, maintaining a five-point lead at the top of the Premier League. The Gunners relied on two well-executed corner routines, underscoring their strength in set-pieces, having scored 16 goals from corners this season—more than any other team and matching the record for a single Premier League campaign.
William Saliba opened the scoring, nodding in following Gabriel’s header, while Jurrien Timber added another from Declan Rice’s delivery, marking his third league goal. Despite sitting clear of second-placed Manchester City, Arsenal faces scrutiny over their performance style.
Former Blackburn Rovers player Chris Sutton remarked on BBC Radio 5 Live, “Set-piece Arsenal again. If they win, will they be the ugliest Premier League champions?” Meanwhile, ex-captain Patrick Vieira noted on Sky Sports the heightened expectations for Arsenal at the top of both the Champions League and Premier League tables.
Gunners manager Mikel Arteta defended his team’s approach, stating, “It’s not ugly; you play the game presented to you. The quality and adaptability on both sides create tight margins.” Leon Osman, a former Everton midfielder, emphasized the effectiveness of set-pieces as a strategic strength for Arsenal.
This season, Arsenal has scored the most match-winning goals from corners in Premier League history, overtaking Manchester United’s previous record. With nine match-winning goals from corners, they underscore the importance of set-pieces in their title pursuit.
Arteta’s focus on set-pieces, honed over a decade and supported by set-piece coach Nicolas Jover, has proven pivotal. Brazilian defender Gabriel has played a crucial role, contributing to 25 goals, the most by an Arsenal centre-back in Premier League history.
Arsenal’s coordinated movements during corner routines often draw complaints from opponents, as seen with Chelsea after Timber’s decisive goal. Following this match, the Premier League has recorded more goals from corners this season than in the entirety of the last.
As the title race intensifies with only nine matches remaining, Arteta acknowledged the increased emphasis on set-pieces, highlighting their effectiveness. Osman noted the narrow margin in performance but emphasized the importance of securing three points.
Critics may question Arsenal’s style, but Osman concluded that effectiveness in both penalty areas ultimately defines success. The ability to win and score from set-pieces remains crucial as Arsenal aims for their first league title since 2004.
