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Arsenal vs Brentford: Gunners Narrow Gap in Premier League Title Race
By Harry Bamforth, Ian Herbert, and Isaan Khan | Updated: 16:28 BST, 12 April 2025

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Arsenal sealed a crucial 2-1 victory over Brentford at the Emirates Stadium, cutting Liverpool’s lead at the Premier League summit to eight points. Despite midweek fatigue from their thrilling 3-0 Champions League win over Real Madrid, the Gunners delivered a resilient performance to keep their title hopes alive.

Key Highlights

• Kai Havertz broke the deadlock in the 34th minute with a composed finish, capitalizing on Martin Ødegaard’s precise through-ball.
• Brentford leveled shortly after halftime via Yoane Wissa, who pounced on a defensive error by William Saliba.
• Declan Rice headed home the winner in the 78th minute, reigniting Arsenal’s charge for the title.

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Tactical Shifts
Mikel Arteta rotated his squad ahead of Wednesday’s Champions League second leg against Real Madrid, resting Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli. Leandro Trossard and Emile Smith Rowe stepped in, with Trossard assisting Rice’s winner.

“We showed character today,” Arteta said post-match. “The team understood the importance of balancing both competitions.”

Brentford, fighting relegation, threatened on the counter but lacked cutting edge. Manager Thomas Frank lamented missed opportunities: “We deserved a point. Small margins cost us.”

League Implications
The win moves Arsenal to 73 points, eight behind Liverpool, who play Manchester United tomorrow. A slip-up by the Reds could reignite a tense title race.

Star Performers

• Declan Rice: Dominant in midfield, scored the decisive goal.
• Kai Havertz: Continued his scoring form with a clinical finish.

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What’s Next?
Arsenal face Real Madrid on Wednesday in a Champions League quarterfinal second leg, holding a commanding 3-0 aggregate lead. Brentford host Sheffield United in a pivotal relegation clash.

Follow live Premier League updates on Mail Sport.

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Final Score: Arsenal 2-1 Brentford (Havertz 34’, Rice 78’; Wissa 53’)

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