Emiliano Buendía scored with virtually the final kick of the match to secure a dramatic 2-1 win for Aston Villa over Premier League leaders Arsenal, sparking wild celebrations at Villa Park and blowing the title race wide open.
Deep into stoppage time, chaos unfolded in Arsenal’s box after David Raya saved Youri Tielemans’ effort and a scramble followed. Buendía’s first attempt was blocked before the ball broke loose again, and with remarkable composure, he curled a first-time finish into the corner. Arsenal players fell to the turf in disbelief as Villa players and substitutes flooded the pitch in jubilation. The win was Villa’s ninth in 10 league games and their 13th in 15 across all competitions.
Villa had taken the lead in the first half through Matty Cash, who powered Pau Torres’s cross beyond Raya. Arsenal hit back early in the second half when Leandro Trossard converted from close range after Bukayo Saka’s cross was only partially dealt with.
Arsenal pushed for a winner, with Martin Ødegaard going close before Villa regained momentum. Substitute Donyell Malen flashed an effort wide, but it was Buendía who delivered the decisive blow in the 95th minute.
The defeat ends Arsenal’s long unbeaten run and mirrors past setbacks against Villa in their title pursuits. Villa, now third, have beaten major contenders this season and look firmly part of the race. Mikel Arteta admitted frustration but praised Villa’s performance: “We thought we were going to win the game… the result could have been different, but it wasn’t.”
With the table tightening and momentum shifting, Buendía’s late strike may prove one of the season’s defining moments.
