Thrilling Draw at the Etihad! Manchester City end up scoring a late equalizer against Arsenal

• Late drama as City secures an equalizer in the 98th minute.
• Erling Haaland scores his 100th goal for Manchester City.
• Arsenal remain resilient despite being outshot.

On the 22nd of September, during matchday 5 of the Premier League season, Manchester City hosted Arsenal at the Etihad Stadium. The game ended in a 2-2 draw, due to John Stone's (30 years old) equalizer in the 98th minute.

Arsenal's Strong Start

Arsenal, coming off a strong run, started the game with high energy and tactical discipline. They took the lead in the first half thanks to Gabriel Martinelli’s (23 years old) outstanding strike. Martinelli, who has been a pivotal figure for the Gunners, capitalized on City’s defensive vulnerability, slotting in a low shot that left goalkeeper Ederson (31 years old) with no chance.

Arsenal's ability to absorb pressure was impressive, with Declan Rice (25 years old) and William Saliba (23 years old) putting in commanding defensive performances. City's usual dominance in possession wasn’t translating into clear chances early on, with the Gunners' high pressing unsettling Pep Guardiola’s (53 years old) men.

City's Response

City began to find their rhythm in the second half, led by the ever-reliable Erling Haaland (24 years old). The Norwegian striker, already a centurion for the club with 100 goals, netted in the 63rd minute after a sustained spell of pressure. Haaland’s presence in the box was a constant headache for the Arsenal backline, but the Gunners showed remarkable resilience.

Arsenal seemed poised for victory when Riccardo Calafiori (22 years old) scored a stunning goal to restore their lead late in the match. However, Manchester City refused to give up, bombarding Arsenal's defense with wave after wave of attack. Guardiola’s decision to bring on additional attacking players, including John Stones, paid off in the dying moments of the game.

Late Drama

The match seemed destined for an Arsenal win until the 98th minute, when Manchester City pulled off a last-gasp equalizer, making it their latest-ever Premier League goal. John Stones was the hero, tapping in from a crowded penalty area following a corner. City finished the match with an incredible 28 shots in the second half alone, showcasing their relentless attacking power.

Arsenal, though frustrated by the late equalizer, should take pride in their performance. Despite being under constant pressure, they maintained their shape and nearly secured all three points at one of the toughest venues in football.

This pulsating draw leaves both teams with much to reflect on as they continue their Premier League campaigns. For City, maintaining their unbeaten start to the season is encouraging, but Guardiola will no doubt want more clinical finishing. Arsenal, on the other hand, will be buoyed by their performance against the defending champions and their ability to compete at the highest level.