Arsenal hosted Crystal Palace on the evening of April 23, 2025, in a Premier League clash that had significant implications for both teams. The Gunners were looking to keep their hopes alive in the title race, while also preparing for a crucial Champions League semi-final against Paris Saint-Germain next week. With Liverpool poised to secure the league title if Arsenal faltered, the stakes were high at the Emirates Stadium.
Kick-off was set for 8 PM, and the match was broadcast live on talkSPORT, with commentary from Adrian Durham and analysis by Scott Minto. Arsenal entered the match in a strong position, having won their last five Premier League encounters against Crystal Palace, scoring five goals in both of the last two meetings. However, the Gunners were aware that a defeat would hand Liverpool their 20th top-flight title.
Mikel Arteta made four changes to his starting lineup following a 4-0 victory over Ipswich Town at the weekend. Myles Lewis-Skelly and Jurrien Timber replaced Ben White and Oleksandr Zinchenko, while Thomas Partey came in for Mikel Merino. Raheem Sterling also started, with Bukayo Saka dropping to the bench due to a slight injury concern. Arteta commented on Saka’s condition, stating, "He was a bit sore, but it's nothing serious, so it's good."
Crystal Palace, under the management of Oliver Glasner, was also dealing with its own challenges. The Eagles were missing Chris Richards due to suspension after a red card in their last match against Bournemouth. Despite sitting in 12th place, Palace was still in contention for European football next season, though they faced an uphill battle, trailing eighth-placed Bournemouth by five points.
As the match unfolded, Arsenal quickly established dominance. In just the 6th minute, Jakub Kiwior scored an early goal, heading in a powerful shot from a Martin Odegaard free-kick. The goal marked Kiwior's first of the season and came as a relief to Arsenal fans, who had been anxious about his performance following Gabriel Magalhaes's serious injury a few weeks prior. Kiwior’s ability to step up in such a critical match showcased his growing importance in the squad.
Following the goal, Arsenal continued to press forward, with Declan Rice and Martinelli creating several chances. However, Crystal Palace fought back, creating opportunities of their own. Eddie Nketiah, a former Arsenal player, came close to equalizing, but his efforts were thwarted by the Gunners' defense and goalkeeper David Raya, who was alert throughout the match.
As the first half progressed, Arsenal maintained control, but Palace’s resilience was evident. The Eagles managed to create a few half-chances, with Daichi Kamada and Nketiah both testing Raya. However, Arsenal's defense, led by Kiwior and Saliba, held firm, ensuring that the home side went into the halftime break with a 1-0 lead.
At halftime, the atmosphere at the Emirates was tense yet hopeful for Arsenal supporters. The Gunners knew that a win was crucial not only to delay Liverpool's title celebrations but also to build momentum heading into their Champions League semi-final. Arteta’s tactical decisions would be scrutinized, especially with key players like Saka and Merino available only from the bench.
In the second half, Arsenal aimed to extend their lead. Arteta's side pushed forward, with Martinelli and Sterling combining well down the left flank. However, Crystal Palace's defense, marshaled by Guehi and Lacroix, proved difficult to break down. The match saw both teams exchanging blows, with Palace looking to capitalize on any mistakes from the Gunners.
As the clock ticked down, Arsenal's players began to feel the pressure. The Gunners had to balance their desire for a second goal with the need to avoid injuries ahead of their crucial Champions League tie. Arteta, aware of the stakes, opted to bring on fresh legs, introducing Saka and other academy players to maintain intensity while managing fatigue.
Despite their efforts, Arsenal struggled to find the net again, with Palace's goalkeeper Henderson making some crucial saves. The Eagles, buoyed by their attacking play, nearly equalized when Nketiah found space in the box, but his shot went wide. The tension in the stadium was palpable as fans urged their team forward.
In the final moments of the match, Arsenal held on to their slim lead. The Gunners’ defense held strong against a late surge from Palace, who were desperate to find an equalizer. Ultimately, Arsenal secured a 1-0 victory, keeping their title hopes alive and postponing Liverpool's celebrations for at least another matchday.
Post-match, Arteta expressed relief at the result, acknowledging the importance of the win for both morale and momentum heading into the Champions League semi-final. "We knew what was at stake tonight, and the boys delivered. Now, we focus on PSG," he said. Kiwior, the hero of the night, reflected on his goal, stating, "It’s always special to score, especially in a game like this. We needed the points, and I’m glad I could help the team."
As Arsenal prepares for their Champions League clash next week, the Gunners will look to build on this victory, while Crystal Palace will regroup ahead of their FA Cup semi-final against Aston Villa. The stakes remain high for both clubs as the season reaches its climax, with Arsenal's ambitions in Europe and Palace's quest for silverware in the FA Cup.
