Arsenal 2-2 Fulham: Match Reaction & Player Ratings

We experienced a two-point drop rather than gaining the one point we anticipated. At certain moments during the game at Emirates, frustration was palpable. Fulham took advantage of this and left with a point that felt like a loss.

In the first half, we had countless chances. However, we began poorly, conceding to Ago in less than a minute due to multiple errors from Ben White, Partey, Aaron Ramsdale, and even Saka.

Michal Arteta’s pre-game team selection brought Trossard in and later swapped him out for Eddie Nketiah at halftime. Additional substitutions included Fábio, Vieira, and Zinchenko, which had a positive impact and changed the dynamics of the game. Goals finally came through a penalty won by Fábio Vieira, converted by Saka, and Nketiah, also assisted by Fábio Vieira. Nevertheless, lackluster defending towards the end, coupled with numerous substitutions, exposed our weakness. Paulinho equalized from a corner, leading to a disappointing outcome.

For more insights into the match reaction, check out my YouTube channel: Egal Talks Football – Link here https://youtube.com/live/oAiwHqDJG7k

Now, it’s time for the player ratings:

Ramsdale’s performance was subpar and filled with uncertainty, highlighted by his involvement in the corner and the initial goal. I would rate him a 5.

Partey’s careless positioning directly contributed to the opening goal. I would rate him a 5.

Ben White struggled in the beginning and appeared frustrated, although he did improve in the second half. I would give him a 5.5.

Saliba played a crucial role; without him, the score could have been significantly worse. I would rate him a 6.

Kiwior’s performance merits a 5.

Declan Rice remained inconspicuous throughout the game, warranting a rating of 5.

Kai Havertz displayed wastefulness in front of the goal, failing to capitalize on his chances. Despite creating a significant opportunity, his performance highlighted recurring issues from his time at Chelsea. I would rate him a 4.

Martin Ødegaard’s goal was disallowed, and he didn’t contribute significantly in the rest of the game. However, his positivity when in possession was notable. I would rate him a 5.

Bukayo Saka managed to score a penalty, but apart from that contribution, his performance was lackluster. His errant pass led to Fulham’s opening goal. I would rate him a 5.

Martinelli emerged as the most significant attacking threat throughout the entirety of the game. I would rate him a 6.

Trossard had a subpar first half, which prompted his substitution at halftime. I would rate him a 4.

Eddie Nketiah made a notable impact off the bench, warranting a rating of 6.5.

Zinchenko’s positioning proved costly in relation to the final goal, despite his excellent overall performance when he came on. I would rate him a 5.

Fabio Vieira was the standout player on the pitch for Arsenal today. His impact was immediate after coming off the bench, winning a penalty and providing an assist within about six minutes. I would rate his performance an 8.

Jorginho’s playing time was insufficient to warrant a rating.