Arsenal encountered a major hurdle in their quest for the Premier League title, ending in a 2-2 draw against Aston Villa.
Yet, Villa quickly fought back, as Youri Tielemans found the net just four minutes later.
Even though Arsenal tried hard to regain their footing, Ollie Watkins equalized in the 68th minute, leaving the Gunners stunned.
As they pushed for a winner, Havertz thought he had clinched the victory late in the match, but VAR intervened, disallowing his goal for a handball.
Unai Emery, who once managed Arsenal, had previously handed them a 2-0 defeat, effectively crushing their title hopes last April.
This time, his squad’s comeback meant Arsenal now trails six points behind Liverpool, who secured a late win against Brentford.
Moreover, the Gunners faced another setback with defender William Saliba missing from the lineup.
In the beginning, Villa had trouble finding their rhythm, but they managed to withstand Arsenal’s initial pressure.
Ian Maatsen finally got a shot on target, but David Raya handled it well.
Shortly after, Leandro Trossard challenged Emiliano Martinez, marking the first real test for the Villa keeper.
A heated exchange erupted between Mikel Arteta and Emery on the touchline, which led to Arteta receiving a yellow card.
Regardless, Arsenal broke through with just ten minutes remaining in the first half.
Trossard delivered a pinpoint cross, and Martinelli volleyed it in, despite Martinez’s best efforts to stop it.
Referee Chris Kavanagh confirmed the goal, marking Martinelli’s seventh of the season.
Shortly after, Arsenal nearly added to their lead, but Trossard’s attempt sailed over the bar.
The Gunners continued to control the game early in the second half, needing another goal for some breathing room.
Havertz finally scored what looked like a vital goal, volleying Trossard’s cross into the net.
The crowd erupted in cheers, but Villa quickly countered. Tielemans scored with a diving header, closing the gap as Villa built momentum.
Just a minute later, Tielemans almost equalized, striking the post with a powerful shot.
Nevertheless, Villa’s persistence paid off in the 68th minute, as Watkins volleyed home from close range, leaving the Emirates crowd shocked.
Arsenal aimed to regain their lead, and Havertz thought he had scored again, but VAR ruled it out.
Frustration grew as Merino struck the woodwork, while Martinez made a brilliant save from Trossard’s follow-up.
In the final moments of stoppage time, Trossard had a golden opportunity to seal the win, but he missed wide.
Ultimately, Arsenal was left to reflect on a disappointing draw in their quest for the title.