Arsenal once again dropped crucial points in the Premier League title race after being held to a 1-1 draw by Brentford on Friday, February 13, 2026. The result proved disappointing, especially for summer signing Eberechi Eze, who struggled to make an impact during his 45-minute first-half stint.
After a tight goalless first half, Arsenal took the lead in the 60th minute when Noni Madueke headed in a precise cross from Piero Hincapie. The away side seemed poised to extend their lead over Manchester City to six points. However, Brentford bounced back ten minutes later, with Keane Lewis-Potter leveling the score.
Both teams had opportunities to claim all three points, with Brentford arguably coming closest to snatching victory. Despite the thrilling contest, the London derby ended in a draw, keeping Arsenal’s title challenge under pressure.
Eberechi Eze Struggles to Shine
All eyes were on Eze, who was substituted at halftime after a lackluster first 45 minutes. The England international winger, a boyhood Arsenal fan, had been expected to add creativity and spark to the Gunners’ attack.
So far this season, Eze has struggled to live up to expectations. He has scored four league goals, three of which came in a single match against former suitors Tottenham Hotspur. Since that North London derby hat-trick in late November, Eze has endured a 16-match goal drought across all competitions.
Expert Analysis: Why Eze Was Substituted
Manager Mikel Arteta introduced Martin Ødegaard at the start of the second half to replace Eze, a decision widely supported by football pundits. Former England striker Peter Crouch commented on TNT Sports, “Eze couldn’t control the ball or set the tempo for the team. He simply didn’t have the influence needed. Defensively, he was less effective than Ødegaard, who moves better across the pitch. It was a tough night for Eze.”
Arsenal legend Martin Keown also weighed in: “Brentford dominated the first half. It was always going to be difficult for Arsenal, especially for Eze. Ødegaard’s entry gave the team structure and added energy in the midfield, which was vital against Brentford’s pressing. It was a necessary change.”
Title Race Heats Up
The draw leaves Arsenal just four points ahead of Manchester City as the league heads into the FA Cup weekend break. Meanwhile, Brentford remain in seventh, only five points shy of the top four.
Keane Lewis-Potter, who scored the equalizer for Brentford, praised his team’s performance and stressed their ambitions. “Securing this point was crucial. The match could have gone either way, but we earned a deserved point. With the squad we have, we’re capable of achieving great things. Taking points from top teams is always our target,” he said.
Consistency Is Key for Arsenal
For Arsenal, the pressure mounts. Dropping points in high-stakes matches emphasizes the need for consistency if they are to end a Premier League title drought of over two decades. With Manchester City lurking close behind, every match is crucial, and the Gunners must find ways to maximize the impact of their key players, including high-profile signings like Eberechi Eze.
Arteta’s team must focus on controlling games and converting chances while managing the psychological pressure of the title race. The integration of new recruits and the ability of existing stars to perform under scrutiny could determine whether Arsenal finally claims the trophy this season.
Looking Ahead
The 1-1 draw against Brentford serves as a reminder that even favorites cannot afford complacency. Arsenal will need to quickly regroup and refine their tactical approach for upcoming fixtures. Meanwhile, Eze’s performance will remain under the microscope as fans and analysts alike await him to deliver consistent impact and justify his summer transfer fee.
ALSO READ :
