Former Super Eagles midfielder Sunday Oliseh has praised Arsenal after their enthralling 2-2 draw against Manchester City on Sunday, Soccernet.ng reports.
Two of the major Premier League contenders－ Manchester City and Arsenal－ faced off at the Etihad Stadium in what was expected to be a tough fixture. Recall that last season, the Gunners pushed City for the league title until the final day of the season.
This season has not changed, as Arsenal and Manchester City have looked like the clear frontrunner for the Premier League title.
In the game on Sunday, Manchester City scored the opener in the 9th minute, but Arsenal equalized through Ricardo Calafiori in the 22nd minute. Then, they took the lead through Gabriel 24 minutes later. Unfortunately for them, Leandro Trossard got sent off just before the break after picking up a second yellow card.
That changed the complexion of the game as Arsenal went ultra-defensive in the second half. The Gunners played with five defenders for the entire second half. Manchester City were overly dominant, with 90% possession, 28 goal attempts, and an xG of 2.04, but they failed to score until the final minute of stoppage time.
It eventually ended 2-2 in the second half, with Manchester City putting up one of the most dominant second half performances.
After the game, Oliseh, who is arguably the best midfielder that Nigeria has produced took to social media to praise Arsenal’s display.
“Arsenal totally deserved victory over Manchester City. This doubtful red card saved Man. City some thrashing from a well organised Arsenal side in my opinion,” Oliseh wrote.
“Conpact, direct playing with a world class goal keeper. Arsenal could be champions this year!”
The result leaves Arsenal just two points behind Manchester City who sit at the summit of the Premier League table. However, the title race is far from being over, as there are still 38 games left this season.