Arsenal Triumphs 5-1 Over Crystal Palace as Jesus Shines Despite Saliba’s Struggles

Arsenal maintained their Premier League title hopes with a dominant 5-1 win against Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park. Gabriel Jesus was the hero once again, scoring a brace to lead the Gunners to victory.

The Brazilian striker opened the scoring with a close-range finish and later added a spectacular second goal, curling a shot into the top corner. Kai Havertz, Gabriel Martinelli and Declan Rice also got on the scoresheet for Arsenal.

However, it was a mixed performance for the Gunners’ defense. William Saliba, typically one of Arsenal’s most reliable players, had an unusually poor showing. The French center-back was at fault for Palace’s equalizer, failing to close down Ismaila Sarr who fired past David Raya. Saliba also nearly gifted Palace a second goal after being caught in possession.

Saliba’s statistics reflected his struggles, as he failed to make a single tackle and won just one of four ground duels all game. It was perhaps his worst half in an Arsenal shirt to date.

Despite Saliba’s off-day, Arsenal’s attack was firing on all cylinders. The win keeps them in the title race, though they will need more consistent defensive performances going forward if they hope to challenge Manchester City and Liverpool at the top of the table.

With matches coming thick and fast, Arsenal will be hoping Saliba can quickly regain his usual excellent form. For now, they can celebrate an emphatic victory powered by Jesus’ heroics up front.