Arsenal moved a step closer to ending their 22-year Premier League title drought after a narrow 1–0 victory over Burnley on Monday, extending their lead at the top of the table to five points.
The decisive goal came from Kai Havertz, who headed home from a corner, continuing Arsenal’s remarkable set-piece effectiveness this season.
The win means the Gunners could be crowned champions as early as Tuesday if Manchester City fail to beat AFC Bournemouth in their fixture.
Even if City win their remaining matches against Bournemouth and Aston Villa, Arsenal would still secure the title by defeating Crystal Palace on Sunday.
However, the match exposed lingering tension in Arsenal’s title push, as Burnley—already relegated—kept the scoreline tight and frustrated Mikel Arteta’s side for long periods.
Leandro Trossard struck the post in the first half, while Bukayo Saka had a penalty appeal dismissed after a challenge inside the box.
Arsenal’s goal came from yet another set piece, their 18th league goal from corners this season, with Havertz rising highest to convert Saka’s delivery.
The match also featured controversy when Havertz escaped a potential red card after a VAR review for a studs-up challenge on Lesley Ugochukwu, with the referee sticking to a yellow card decision.
He was later substituted for Viktor Gyökeres, but Arsenal struggled to increase their attacking threat after his introduction.
Despite the narrow scoreline, Arsenal’s defensive solidity continued to stand out. Since their defeat to Manchester City last month, the Gunners have not conceded a goal in their last four Premier League matches.
The result keeps Arsenal firmly in control of the title race, with only a few matches remaining in a season that could end their long wait for domestic glory.
