Arsenal Maintains Premier League Title Chase with Crucial 2-1 Victory Over Chelsea at Stamford Bridge

Arsenal kept their Premier League title hopes alive with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Chelsea at Stamford Bridge on Sunday, delivering a statement performance that moves them within three points of league leaders Manchester City with a game in hand.

Martin Ødegaard opened the scoring for the visitors in the 23rd minute with a perfectly placed curling effort from the edge of the penalty area, after excellent build-up play from Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Jesus. The Norwegian captain has been instrumental in Arsenal's title push, contributing 8 goals and 12 assists in league play this season.

Gabriel Jesus doubled Arsenal's lead just before halftime, capitalizing on a defensive error from Chelsea goalkeeper Robert Sánchez. The Brazilian striker, who has found his scoring form in recent weeks, pounced on a loose ball after Sánchez fumbled a cross from Martinelli, tapping home from close range for his 11th goal of the campaign.

Chelsea pulled one back in the 67th minute through Enzo Fernández, whose deflected shot from outside the box found its way past Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya. The goal sparked a frantic final 25 minutes as the Blues pushed for an equalizer, but Arsenal's defense, marshaled by William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhães, held firm under intense pressure.

"This was a massive win for us," said Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta after the match. "Coming to Stamford Bridge and getting three points against a quality Chelsea side shows the character and mentality we've built in this squad. We know every game is crucial at this stage of the season."

The victory extends Arsenal's unbeaten run to eight matches and puts significant pressure on Manchester City, who dropped points with a 1-1 draw against Newcastle on Saturday. With 13 games remaining in the season, the Gunners have positioned themselves as genuine contenders for their first Premier League title since 2004. Chelsea, meanwhile, remain in mid-table mediocrity, sitting 10th in the standings and facing questions about their direction under manager Frank Lampard.