Premier League: Saka Outshines Ndidi, Iheanacho As Arsenal, Leicester Battle To A Draw

Jamie Vardy’s late strike cancelled out Pierre Emerick Aubameyang’s first-half opener as ten-man Arsenal, and Leicester City shared the points after a 1-1 draw at the Emirates on Tuesday evening. 

Leicester started the striking duo of Iheanacho and Jamie Vardy and threatened in patches. But the Foxes struggled to utilise their attacking qualities and looked uncharacteristically nervy in defence, despite the presence of midfield enforcer Wilfred Ndidi. 

It was Arsenal who led the visitors one-nil at halftime thanks to Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang’s 20th Premier League goal of the season.

Saka did brilliantly to latch onto Ceballos’ terrific through ball before putting an inviting cross on a plate for Aubameyang to turn home at the far post.

That assist was Saka’s 12th in all competitions with only Manchester City’s Kevin De Bruyne (19) and Liverpool’s Trent Alexander-Arnold (14) having more assists among Premier League players.

Iheanacho had the ball in the net for Brendan Rodgers’ side ten minutes from the interval, but it was disallowed for a foul by the striker in the build-up.

The Gunners goalie Emi Martinez saved another fine volley from Iheanacho shortly after the restart before the Nigerian striker was withdrawn for Harvey Barnes moments later.

Arsenal had a goal of their own cancelled when Lacazette turned home a loose ball from a corner only for the linesman to spot the Frenchman in an offside position.

Substitute Eddie Nketiah then complicated matters for the hosts, after he received a straight red card for a reckless challenge on Leicester’s James Justin.

And Arsenal, having to play the last 15 minutes with ten men, retreated further back to protect their lead.

But the Foxes could not be kept at bay forever with Vardy netting his 22nd goal of the campaign to get his side back on level terms five minutes to the end. 

It’s a precious point for Leicester, who now sit in fourth place, one point behind Chelsea in third and four above Man United in fifth.

Arsenal remain in 7th place but are only two points better off than Tottenham who have a game in hand at struggling Bournemouth.