Emiliano Buendía scored a last-gasp goal to secure a 2-1 victory for Aston Villa over Arsenal in the Premier League, ending Arsenal’s impressive 18-game unbeaten run across all competitions. The win marked Villa’s sixth consecutive home league victory and sent a strong message about their form this season.
The match started with plenty of energy from both sides, and both goalkeepers were tested early on. Emiliano Martínez denied Martin Ødegaard after Jurriën Timber had dispossessed Morgan Rogers, while Ollie Watkins forced a strong save from David Raya in Villa’s goal. Bukayo Saka had an influence on the game as well but saw one ambitious shot saved, a header go wide, and another attempt blocked by Amadou Onana.
Arsenal looked to take the lead around the 22nd minute when Saka appeared to set up Eberechi Eze, but the goal was disallowed for offside. Villa continued to press and eventually broke the deadlock in the 37th minute. Matty Cash scored after a deflection from Timber’s flick on Pau Torres’ cross, putting the home side ahead. Arsenal tried to respond before half-time, with Ben White and Declan Rice both denied by Martínez.
After the break, Mikel Arteta made two substitutions and Arsenal dominated possession, looking for an equaliser. Leandro Trossard, seven minutes after coming on, scored from close range after Martínez could only get a hand to Saka’s pass. Arsenal kept up the pressure, with several shots blocked or saved, while Villa reacted quickly on the counter.
As the game seemed to be heading for a draw, Villa kept the ball alive in Arsenal’s penalty area in the final seconds. Buendía remained composed amid the chaos to score the winning goal, sparking celebration at Villa Park. This result moves Villa into second place in the Premier League, just three points behind Arsenal.
Man of the Match was Youri Tielemans for his influential performance in midfield.
