Arsenal were held to a goalless draw by Nottingham Forest in the Premier League yesterday at the City Ground — a result that extended their lead at the top of the table, but also felt like a missed chance to capitalise on a slip from Manchester City.
Arsenal arrived in Nottinghamshire looking to take advantage of a chaotic weekend at the top of the league. A Manchester City defeat earlier in the day had presented an opportunity to stretch their advantage to nine points, but despite dominating large phases, the Gunners were unable to find a breakthrough.
The match unfolded much as many expected: Arsenal controlled much of the ball and territory, registering more shots and corners, while Forest defended in numbers and looked to frustrate at every turn. According to match stats, Arsenal ended the game with around 61% possession, but couldn’t turn that control into a winning goal.
The closest Arsenal came to scoring included a few dangerous moments from the likes of Gabriel Martinelli and Bukayo Saka, but the decisive finish never came. Forest goalkeeper Matz Sels was praised for several key saves that kept his side in the game, including denying efforts from Rice and Saka as the second half wore on.
One moment of controversy also added to Arsenal’s frustrations: a late appeal for handball in the box against Ola Aina was reviewed by VAR and ruled out, with officials judging the defender’s arm to be in a natural position.
Meanwhile, Forest defended resolutely throughout, restricting Arsenal to only three shots on target despite Arsenal’s overall attacking pressure. It was the second consecutive league game that Arsenal failed to score — something they hadn’t done since the early stages of the 2012–13 season.
The point sees Arsenal extend their lead at the top to seven points, though that margin could shrink depending on Sunday’s results. While the draw maintains their unbeaten position, the inability to turn control into goals will raise questions among supporters and pundits alike about finishing and decision-making in the final third.
Forest, for their part, will view the result as a morale-boosting clean sheet and a sign of progress under their current management, holding a powerful title-chasing side to a draw through grit and organisation.
In the context of the title race, this draw keeps Arsenal firmly in control — but also highlights a recurring theme: the Gunners sometimes struggle to convert extended periods of possession into match-deciding goals. With a packed schedule ahead and tight margins at the top of the table, sharpening the attacking edge will be crucial in the coming weeks.
Despite the frustration, the result keeps Arsenal ahead in the Premier League and maintains their strong position as the season enters its next phase.
Arsenal stay top, still firmly in control of their own destiny. The lead is healthy, the unbeaten run continues, and the defensive base remains rock-solid. But the inability to turn dominance into goals — especially against a deep block — is becoming a talking point.
With a packed schedule ahead and tight margins at the summit, sharpening that attacking edge will be crucial. The frustration is real, but the position is strong.
This wasn’t a statement win. It was a point earned, a lead preserved, and a reminder that title races are rarely straightforward.
COYG ❤️⚪
Next up: Inter Milan
