Stamford Bridge drama, Chelsea 2-2 Arsenal, ends in late-game collapse

Late in the game, Leandro Trossard equalized to preserve both Arsenal's victory.

October 21, 2023

In the heated local derby, the outcome hinged on an unexpected turn of events. Early in the second half, a miscued cross by the Chelsea winger seemed destined to be the decisive moment.

Arsenal’s Oleksandr Zinchenko playfully warned his Ukrainian teammate, Mudryk, that he’d “rip his b***s off” if Mudryk replicated his recent wonder goal for their national team.

However, as time ticked away, Chelsea’s goalkeeper, Robert Sanchez, inadvertently gifted Arsenal a lifeline by poorly clearing the ball, which Declan Rice promptly smashed into the net.

Then, in a late substitution twist, Trossard sneaked around the defence to convert a close-range cross from Bukayo Saka.

Even though Chelsea dominated most of the match, they allowed a potentially significant victory to slip away, despite Arsenal having more possession.

In the midst of a gritty contest on a rainy night in West London, the field was witness to its fair share of rough challenges and a couple of early bookings.

Chelsea, appearing stronger and more menacing, strongly believed that Saliba had used his arm to block Mykhailo Mudryk’s header. However, it was only after Marc Cucurella fouled Bukayo Saka that play was interrupted, and VAR summoned referee Cavanagh to review the incident.

To some, the decision might have seemed harsh, but it aligned with the current interpretation of the rules – a penalty was awarded. Palmer confidently sent David Raya the wrong way from the spot, providing a rare moment of calm in a frenzied first half.

Although Arsenal controlled possession, they were physically dominated by an organized Chelsea side. They struggled to create scoring opportunities, while Palmer and Chelsea came closest to scoring again, with a shot narrowly missing Raya’s left post.

Mudryk’s moment of glory arrived just three minutes into the second half. Arsenal lost possession in the Chelsea half, Conor Gallagher initiated a break, and Mudryk’s cross found its way into the far corner, eluding Raya.

Arsenal then sprang to life, enjoying a brief period of pressure, but Palmer had the chance to seal the game when he intercepted Raya’s attempted pass. Unfortunately, he hesitated and Raya made up for his earlier mistake with a crucial save.

Chelsea appeared in control until Sanchez made a costly error, in stark contrast to his counterpart in the opposing goal. The Chelsea goalkeeper’s errant pass led to Rice’s instant equalizer.

Worse was yet to come for the home side. Arsenal surged forward, and Malo Gusto lost sight of Trossard as he made a run to meet Saka’s cross. Another substitute, Eddie Nketiah, came agonizingly close to scoring a sensational third goal moments later.

Despite seven minutes of added time, neither side could conjure up a late dramatic twist to conclude the evening.

PALMER SLOTS HOME THE PENALTY! 🔵

Arsenal concede for the first time away from home this season! pic.twitter.com/eQbo5odfEd

— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) October 21, 2023