Arsenal moved within touching distance of securing their first Premier League title since 2004 after a narrow 1-0 victory over Burnley at the Emirates Stadium on Thursday night. The victory leaves Arsenal one step away from clinching the title, with a win at Crystal Palace on Sunday set to secure the championship regardless of Manchester City’s results.

The only goal of the match came just before halftime, when Kai Havertz rose to head in a corner delivered by Bukayo Saka. The strike marked another pivotal moment in Arsenal’s recent run, as they continue to rely heavily on set-piece situations to break down opponents. Despite their advantage, the second half was tense, with Burnley pressing and creating sporadic chances against a resolute Arsenal defense that kept its 19th clean sheet of the league campaign.

Throughout the match, Arsenal showed flashes of attacking intent, particularly through Leandro Trossard, who came close to scoring early on when his shot rattled the post. Eberechi Eze also emerged as a threat during the second half, narrowly missing a volley and a header from Havertz’s crosses. Still, Arsenal struggled to add a second goal, prompting anxious moments among supporters as Burnley threatened on the counterattack.

Burnley, recently relegated and now under caretaker manager Michael Jackson after the departure of Scott Parker, fought to extend their stay in the Premier League past their confirmed relegation. They held firm for much of the match and dished out a number of fouls, including one late challenge by Havertz that drew controversy. Havertz’s studs scraped down the back of Lesley Ugochukwu’s calf, with Burnley pushing for a red card that was ultimately not issued following a VAR check, much to their frustration.

With seven minutes of added time at the end, both teams faced intense pressure. Burnley launched a series of late throws and crosses into the Arsenal box, while Arsenal sought to see out the game amid mounting tension in the stadium. In the closing moments, an opportunity for Gabriel Martinelli to extend the lead slipped away, underscoring the nerves permeating the match.

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta, who had called for passion and energy ahead of the game, was left to manage a nerve-shredding encounter that nonetheless brought his side tantalizingly close to the title. If Manchester City fail to overcome Bournemouth, Arsenal will be crowned champions without needing to wait for the final day. However, if City do win, the championship will be decided on Sunday at Selhurst Park, where Arsenal will face Crystal Palace with a narrow points advantage over their Manchester rivals.

The victory will be remembered not only for its importance but also for the anxiety it produced among Arsenal fans, highlighting the difficulties even a title-winning side must endure in a closely contested Premier League season. As the final weekend approaches, Arsenal will hope to maintain their composure and secure the long-awaited crown.