Arsenal Halt Villa’s Charge with Emphatic Win to Extend Lead at Top

Gunners Avenge Earlier Defeat with 4-1 Rout, Moving Five Points Clear as Villa’s Winning Streak Ends

Aston Villa’s remarkable 11-match winning streak across all competitions came to a shuddering halt on Tuesday night as Premier League leaders Arsenal delivered a powerful statement, winning 4-1 to extend their advantage at the summit to five points.

Mikel Arteta’s side, avenging a painful last-gasp loss to Villa earlier this month, seized control in the second half to dismantle Unai Emery’s visitors. The victory was a testament to their resilience and attacking firepower.

The contest shifted decisively just before halftime when Villa’s influential midfielder Amadou Onana was forced off injured. Arsenal capitalized soon after the restart. A 48th-minute corner from Bukayo Saka caused havoc, with Villa goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez spilling the ball under pressure, allowing defender Gabriel to poke home from close range.

Gabriel scores on his first start since returning from injury

Villa’s protests were ignored, and their frustration deepened just five minutes later. Captain Martin Ødegaard robbed Jadon Sancho of possession and slid a perfect through-ball to Martin Zubimendi, who finished coolly to double the lead.

The Gunners turned the screw, adding a third through Leandro Trossard’s fierce strike from the edge of the box. Substitute Gabriel Jesus then curled in a magnificent fourth late on, showcasing the depth of Arsenal’s squad.

Villa, who had stunned the Emirates three weeks ago, managed only a stoppage-time consolation from Ollie Watkins. The result halts their stunning run and deals a blow to their own title aspirations, while Arsenal march on with renewed momentum.

“We learned from the last game and used that hurt in the right way,” said a satisfied Arteta after the match. “The reaction from the team, especially in the second half, was excellent.”

With Manchester City in action on New Year’s Day, Arsenal have laid down a formidable marker, proving they can overcome a key rival with a performance of conviction and control.

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