EPL: Arsenal Salvage Late Draw Against Southampton As Title Race Blows Open

Arsenal pulled off a dramatic late comeback to secure a 3-3 draw against Southampton at the Emirates Stadium, but their Premier League title challenge hangs by a slender thread.

Mikel Arteta's side found themselves trailing 3-1 with just two minutes of normal time remaining after a series of defensive errors and a stunning opener from Southampton's Carlos Alcaraz.

Former Gunners forward Theo Walcott doubled the visitors' lead before Gabriel Martinelli pulled one back for Arsenal. Duje Caleta-Car's header seemed to seal the victory for Southampton, but Arsenal fought back with goals from Martin Odegaard and Bukayo Saka to salvage a point in stoppage time.

Despite the thrilling late escape, Arteta was left frustrated as the result puts Arsenal's title challenge in jeopardy.

The Gunners are now five points clear of second-placed Manchester City, but City have two games in hand due to their involvement in the FA Cup semifinals. If City win or draw against Arsenal and then win their remaining matches, they will be crowned champions regardless of Arsenal's results.

Arsenal's young team, supported by iconic former players Patrick Vieira, Thierry Henry, and Sol Campbell, now face a do-or-die showdown against City at the Etihad Stadium.

Arsenal's performance was marred by defensive errors, with goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale committing a costly blunder in the opening minute, and Thomas Partey giving away possession leading to Walcott's goal.

However, Arsenal showed spirit and determination to stage a comeback, with Odegaard and Saka finding the back of the net in the dying moments of the game. Arsenal had chances to snatch victory, with Leandro Trossard hitting the bar and Reiss Nelson's shot narrowly missing the target.

The result leaves Arsenal fans anxious about their title hopes, and Arteta's team will need to regroup and find their defensive solidity ahead of the crucial clash against Manchester City.