Chelsea’s push for a Champions League spot suffered a setback as they fell to a narrow 1-0 defeat against Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium on Sunday.
Meanwhile, Fulham capitalized on Tottenham’s fatigue from European competition, securing a convincing 2-0 victory at Craven Cottage.
Arsenal’s victory was secured through a well-taken header from Mikel Merino in the 20th minute.
The Spanish midfielder, playing in an unfamiliar striker role due to Kai Havertz’s season-ending injury, rose highest to meet Martin Ødegaard’s corner, guiding the ball past Chelsea goalkeeper Robert Sánchez and into the far post.
Despite Arsenal’s dominance in possession, clear-cut chances were limited. Chelsea, missing their in-form playmaker Cole Palmer due to illness, struggled to create attacking opportunities.
The Blues’ best chance came through an unforced error when Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya fumbled a shot from Marc Cucurella, only for the ball to roll agonizingly wide instead of creeping into the net.
Arsenal nearly doubled their lead in the second half, with Merino again threatening, but Sánchez pulled off a brilliant save to keep Chelsea in the contest. However, the visitors failed to capitalize, with their attack lacking the sharpness needed to break down Mikel Arteta’s well-organized defense.
The victory cements Arsenal’s position in second place, cutting Liverpool’s lead at the top to 12 points. For Chelsea, the loss leaves them vulnerable in fourth place, with Manchester City, Aston Villa, and several other teams within striking distance.
At Craven Cottage, Tottenham suffered another post-European slump as Fulham outplayed them in a 2-0 victory that strengthens their own push for European qualification.
Spurs had entered the match fresh off their Europa League quarter-final qualification against AZ Alkmaar on Thursday. However, fatigue was evident in their sluggish performance against a well-drilled Fulham side.
Marco Silva’s men controlled the tempo and posed a constant threat, though they had to wait until the 78th minute to break the deadlock.
Rodrigo Muniz struck first, finishing calmly from an Andreas Pereira assist after a swift Fulham counterattack. The Brazilian forward’s goal rewarded Fulham’s persistent pressure and exposed Tottenham’s defensive vulnerabilities.
Just minutes later, former Spurs player Ryan Sessegnon put the game beyond doubt with a superb curling effort from the edge of the box, leaving goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario helpless.
This defeat continues Tottenham’s struggles following midweek European fixtures. Ange Postecoglou’s side has now won only three of their last 10 Premier League games after playing in the Europa League.
The loss also dents Spurs’ ambitions of securing a top-four finish, as they now sit outside the Champions League places with crucial fixtures ahead.
Meanwhile, Fulham’s win propels them into the mix for a top-five finish, keeping them within touching distance of the Champions League spots in what is turning into a fiercely competitive race for European football next season.
Manchester United will conclude Sunday’s Premier League action with an evening clash against Leicester City, looking to capitalize on their rivals’ slip-ups.
