Arsenal missed a golden opportunity to extend their Premier League lead to nine points after a resilient 0–0 draw against Nottingham Forest at the Emirates Stadium on Saturday, with Forest goalkeeper Brice Sels producing a string of superb saves to preserve the stalemate.
The Gunners, who had been riding high atop the table, came into the clash looking to capitalise on a slip-up by second-placed Aston Villa in mid-week. Instead they were met with a determined Forest side and an inspired performance from Sels, whose late stop denied a powerful strike from Gabriel Jesus and ensured Forest left north London with a hard-earned point.
Arsenal controlled much of the game, dominating possession and creating a number of promising openings, but found the Forest defence disciplined and organised throughout. Sels was at the heart of Forest’s resistance, making a series of acrobatic saves that frustrated the hosts and kept the clean sheet intact.
After the match, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta acknowledged the disappointment of not securing all three points but praised his team’s intensity and control. “We created chances and pushed hard for the win,” Arteta said. “But credit to Forest and to Sels for making it difficult. We had opportunities and came up against a goalkeeper in great form.”
The draw means Arsenal remain top of the Premier League, but their cushion at the summit will remain at six points as they were unable to take full advantage of Villa’s recent slip. With 49 points from 22 games, the Gunners still hold a commanding position in the title race but will rue missed opportunities in decisive moments.
Sels’ performance was widely lauded by Forest boss Nuno Espírito Santo, who insisted his side were well-organized and committed to frustrating the hosts. “We came here to make it tough for them and give everything we had,” Nuno said. “Brice was outstanding and his saves kept us in the game.”
For Nottingham Forest, the draw is a significant result in their own campaign, slowing the momentum of one of the division’s most in-form sides. The point sees them remain in mid-table contention, buoyed by the belief that they can compete with top-flight opposition on their day.
