In a breathtaking finale at Villa Park, Aston Villa delivered a seismic statement in the Premier League title race, defeating Arsenal 2-1 with a goal deep into added time. Emi Buendia was the hero, striking in the 97th minute to secure three vital points that propel Unai Emery's team to within just three points of the league's summit.
Emery's Elation as Villa Snatch Victory
The usually composed Villa manager, Unai Emery, was seen leaping for joy on the touchline as Buendia's late, late winner hit the net. The goal survived a swift VAR check, confirming a landmark victory for the hosts. After the final whistle, Emery regained his characteristic calm, shaking hands with opposite number Mikel Arteta before briskly departing to the tunnel, leaving the acclaim for his players.
This result caps a remarkable run of form for Villa, who have now won nine of their last ten Premier League matches. This is a feat they have not achieved in the top flight since December 1919, underlining the historic nature of their current campaign.
A Closely Fought Contest Decided Late
The match itself was a compelling, end-to-end affair. Villa took the lead in the first half through defender Matty Cash, showcasing their threat from all areas. Arsenal responded after the break, with substitute Leandro Trossard finding an equaliser to set up a tense finale.
Prior to the dramatic winner, Villa striker Ollie Watkins had forced Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya into two excellent saves, tormenting a makeshift Gunners defence. Watkins' substitution for Donyell Malen proved another masterstroke from Emery, with the fresh legs adding renewed impetus to Villa's attack in the closing stages.
While Arsenal enjoyed a dominant 20-minute spell after half-time, they appeared to fade physically, allowing the more vibrant Villa side to press for a winner. The decisive moment came from a goalmouth scramble, with Buendia showing immense composure to slot home and send the home support into delirium.
Title Credentials Can No Longer Be Ignored
Before the match, Unai Emery had downplayed suggestions that his team were genuine title contenders. After this result, such modesty is increasingly difficult to maintain. Aston Villa are unequivocally the form team in England and have demonstrated serious strength in depth, with impactful contributions from across the squad.
It is worth noting that two of Villa's three league defeats this season came before the summer transfer window closed, during a period of speculation surrounding key players. The team now operates with palpable certainty and confidence.
For Arsenal, the late defeat will be a bitter pill to swallow, but it would be unfair to label it as a sign of wilting title resolve. They were missing key defensive personnel and were ultimately beaten by a side operating at a ferocious peak. The Premier League season remains wide open, and on this evidence, Aston Villa are firmly in the mix to be flying high come May.
