Arsenal Narrowly Defeat Chelsea in Lackluster London Derby

Mikel Merino's first-half header secures Arsenal's 1-0 victory, while Chelsea struggle without key players in their bid for a top-four finish.

Mikel Merino's looping header from a Martin Ødegaard corner in the 20th minute was the decisive goal in Arsenal's 1-0 win over Chelsea at the Emirates Stadium.
The game was marked by a lack of attacking quality, with Arsenal missing Bukayo Saka and Chelsea struggling without Cole Palmer, who was sidelined with a muscle injury.
Chelsea's Robert Sánchez made a crucial save in the second half to deny Merino a second goal but also had some erratic moments in goal, contributing to defensive instability.
Chelsea managed an expected goal (xG) value of just 0.35, highlighting their struggles in attack and raising questions about their lack of creativity and intensity.
The result strengthens Arsenal's hold on second place in the Premier League, while Chelsea's fourth-place position is under threat from multiple teams within four points.