NEWPOST AFRICA SPORTS: Arsenal head into Sunday’s London derby knowing victory over Chelsea is vital to maintain their lead over Manchester City in the Premier League title race.
The Gunners, who last beat Chelsea three times in a single season during their 2003–04 title-winning campaign, have shown both resilience and vulnerability this term. After dropping points in consecutive draws against Brentford and Wolves, Mikel Arteta’s side bounced back with a commanding 4–1 win over Tottenham last weekend.
City remain five points behind with a game in hand and face Leeds, a side that nearly held them earlier in the season. Anything less than three points for Arsenal could tighten the race at the top.
Chelsea, unbeaten under new manager Liam Rosenior except against Arsenal, will be eager to avoid a third defeat to their rivals this season. Despite losing twice in the League Cup semifinals, they managed a league draw in November despite playing with ten men.
Arteta insists past results mean little: “Every game is different. We know the importance of this match and we must prepare to earn the right to win,” he said.
He praised Chelsea’s adaptability under Rosenior, noting Arsenal must be ready for tactical shifts.
With Arsenal’s recent struggles against top-six opponents at home, Sunday’s clash promises to be a defining moment in the title race.
