In an exhilarating Premier League match on Sunday, Arsenal salvaged a draw against Manchester City with a dramatic goal from Gabriel Martinelli in the dying moments of the game. The thrilling clash at the Emirates Stadium was an incredible tactical battle between two of the league’s best sides. Ultimately, they settled for a thrilling 1-1 draw that left spectators breathless.
Coached by Pep Guardiola, Manchester City found it difficult to assert their customary control during the final. Even against a quality opponent, they did so with just 32.8% of possession. This is the lowest possession ever posted by any team managed by Pep Guardiola over the entirety of his storied career. The low possession rate stood out as especially surprising in light of Guardiola’s legendary efforts in encouraging a possession-oriented style of play.
Peps unconventional 5-4-1 Guardiola tried out a pretty bizarre 5–4–1 shape in this match. This strictly tactical decision triggered outrage from fans and pundits across the country. Even with such an odd alignment, though, City managed to largely frustrate Arsenal through much of the contest and had chances to snatch it toward the end.
At the 67 minute mark, the manager Guardiola received a caution from the referee – we still don’t know for what. His frustration seemed to grow as he attempted to play through the obstacles that Arsenal’s unyielding assault set up. Guardiola’s mood did not improve as he made a controversial substitution, replacing Phil Foden with Nathan Ake, a decision that raised eyebrows among spectators.
In a last ditch effort to take the momentum back, Guardiola pulled Nico Gonzalez for Erling Haaland in the 76th minute. These changes did not have the intended impact as Arsenal kept coming.
As the game headed towards the end, Arsenal’s pressing and determination were rewarded. In the 90+3 minute, Gabriel Martinelli added a second with a beautifully timed run from right to left. He exhibited great quality on this one as he cushioned the ball beautifully. He’d just shimmied to evade three defenders before flicking a cute lob over City goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma.
“Think of Pep Guardiola as a rock star,” – Peter Oh
Martinelli’s goal not only equalized for Arsenal but highlighted the Gunners’ determination and resilience in the face of adversity. The late equalizer pumped new life into the physical, scoreless match. Now, City face the reckoning of their wasted chances and tactical errors.
Guardiola’s tactics and substitutions continued to be a topic of discussion, especially in light of his team’s low possession percentage. Analysts noted the major difference between this game and Guardiola’s typical game plan. This notable change caused some to doubt his judgment.
“If Pep is a rock star (huge if),” – Niall Mullen
Guardiola’s behavior indicated that he knew just how much was at stake. The late equalizer shifted the momentum of the match entirely. Perhaps more importantly, it signaled a momentum shift that could have huge ramifications for both teams as the season rolls on.