Arsenal secured a nervy 1-0 win over already-relegated Burnley and could be crowned Premier League champions on Tuesday if Manchester City fail to win against Bournemouth.
But if City beat the Cherries, who are on a 16-game unbeaten run ahead of the game, live on Sky Sports, then the Premier League title race goes to the final day.
After the team bus was welcomed in by a raucous support, Arsenal took their time to get going despite a very attacking line-up put out by Mikel Arteta – but their pressure eventually led to a goal.
After Leandro Trossard struck the post and Martin Odegaard saw a good chance deflected wide, Kai Havertz nodded Bukayo Saka’s corner in for Arsenal’s 24th goal from a set-piece in the league this season – their 18th from a corner.
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Kai Havertz heads home to put Arsenal in front!
With goal difference potentially crucial in the final week of the season, Arsenal pushed for more as Eberechi Eze struck the bar – then saw a goalbound close-range header blocked by Maxime Esteve.
Then came a moment of controversy as Havertz put in a high challenge on Lesley Ugochukwu. Referee Paul Tierney booked the Arsenal striker but VAR James Bell looked at serious foul play and opted to stick with the on-field decision.
“It’s a horrible one, it’s vicious from Havertz,” said Gary Neville on co-commentary.
“I think this is a red. There’s no way you’re getting the ball, you can only hurt the player there.
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Kai Havertz avoids sending off after late challenge
“I don’t think [the VAR call is] right – he’s a lucky boy. I’d get him off the pitch straight away.”
Burnley did not threaten the Arsenal goal too much, despite a nervy atmosphere at the Emirates, but who knows what would have happened had the Gunners lost a player.
Instead, Arsenal stand on the brink of the title. Arteta’s side are nearly there.
More to follow…
