The Premier League title race took a fascinating pause this week, as leaders Arsenal were held to a 0-0 draw at home by Liverpool on Thursday night. The result leaves Mikel Arteta's side six points clear at the summit, but the performance raised questions about their championship mettle against the very best.
A Stalemate at the Emirates
In a match of high tension but limited clear-cut chances, Arsenal failed to register a single shot on target between the 44th and 90th minutes. Liverpool, often cited as the one team that truly tests the Gunners' nerve, controlled large spells but couldn't find a breakthrough either. The shared points mean the initiative remains with Arsenal, but the onus is now on their rivals to close the gap with 17 games of the season remaining.
FA Cup Weekend Takes Centre Stage
Attention now turns to the FA Cup third round, with the Premier League taking a brief hiatus. The magic of the cup promises drama, with several top-flight clubs facing tricky away ties.
Nottingham Forest travel to face in-form Wrexham in a Friday night fixture that has 'upset' written all over it. On Sunday, Arsenal must navigate a trip to Fratton Park to face Portsmouth if they harbour ambitions of a potential double. Meanwhile, the holders, Crystal Palace, have an early Saturday kick-off away at non-league Macclesfield.
Afcon and Transfer Window Updates
Beyond domestic action, the Africa Cup of Nations quarter-finals begin today. The standout fixture sees hosts Morocco take on Cameroon in a heavyweight last-eight clash.
The January transfer window also continues to simmer. Antoine Semenyo has completed his move to Bournemouth, but speculation is rife about who could be next as clubs look to strengthen their squads for the second half of the campaign.
