Arsenal’s slim Premier League title hopes took another hit after a frustrating 0-0 draw against Nottingham Forest at the City Ground.
The result leaves Mikel Arteta’s side 13 points adrift of leaders Liverpool, who extended their advantage with a 2-0 win over Newcastle. With just over two months left in the campaign, Arsenal’s challenge appears all but over.
Coming off a home defeat to West Ham, the Gunners needed a response but struggled to find a cutting edge. Injuries to Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Jesus, Gabriel Martinelli, and Kai Havertz forced Arteta into changes, leaving Arsenal without a natural focal point in attack.
Leandro Trossard and Mikel Merino were lively but lacked the presence to trouble Forest’s defence. The closest Arsenal came was Riccardo Calafiori’s deflected strike that hit the post before goalkeeper Matz Sels gathered it. Merino also saw a second-half header saved.
Despite dominating possession, Arsenal rarely tested the Forest backline, allowing the hosts to hold on for a valuable point in their own push for Champions League qualification.
Forest show resilience in European race
While Arsenal struggled in attack, Forest executed their game plan effectively, frustrating the visitors and limiting clear chances.
Chris Wood, the home side’s top scorer with 18 league goals, was kept quiet for most of the match but came close late on, only to be denied by David Raya.
The draw keeps Forest fourth in the table, six points behind Arsenal and two ahead of Chelsea in fifth. A year ago, they were battling relegation; now, they are firmly in contention for a Champions League spot.
Their defensive display was particularly crucial after conceding eight goals in their previous three league games. This was the first goalless draw at the City Ground in the Premier League since 1998, and it sets up a massive clash against Manchester City on 8 March.
Arsenal’s Attention Shifts to Champions League
With the league title slipping away, Arsenal’s best shot at silverware now lies in Europe. They travel to PSV for the Champions League last 16 on 4 March, needing to quickly regroup after another disappointing domestic result.
Meanwhile, Forest will look to build on this performance as they prepare for a pivotal showdown with City that could further shape the race for European qualification.
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