Arsenal took a giant step towards the 2025-26 Premier League title after a 1-0 victory over Burnley at the Emirates Stadium. A header from Kai Havertz in the 37th minute, from a corner kick delivered by Bukayo Saka, was enough for Mikel Arteta's side to maintain their lead over Guardiola's Manchester City in the table, with just one matchday remaining.
Corner kick strategy as an offensive weapon ⚽
Havertz's goal was not a stroke of luck, but the result of specific tactical work. Arsenal's coaching staff has perfected a system of blocks in the area that frees up their finishers. In this play, Saka executed a curling delivery towards the penalty spot, where Havertz broke away from his marker to connect with a powerful and placed header. The team leads the Premier League in headed goals from set pieces this season.
Guardiola looking to the sky and wondering why 🤔
While Arteta celebrated with a clenched fist, a collective sigh was heard in Manchester. Guardiola's City, who have won titles through possession and passing, see how a corner kick goal can decide a league. The irony is that Guardiola himself introduced rehearsed corner kicks to English football, and now his disciple is beating him at his own game. Football, sometimes, is a mirror that does not forgive.