London: The league leaders, Arsenal, were handed a surprising 1-2 defeat by Aston Villa in an intense match at Villa Park. Despite a strong performance, Arsenal succumbed to a last-minute goal, marking their second loss of the season. Meanwhile, Liverpool experienced a late equalizer in their 3-3 draw with Leeds United, despite taking the lead twice in the match.

According to Thai News Agency, Aston Villa took the lead in the 36th minute with a goal from Matty Cash. Arsenal managed to equalize in the 52nd minute through Leandro Trossard, setting the stage for what seemed to be a draw. However, Emiliano Buendia’s stoppage-time goal in the 90+5th minute secured a victory for Villa, catapulting them to 3rd place with 30 points from 15 matches. Arsenal, despite the setback, remains at the top with 33 points.

In post-match comments, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta expressed his disappointment with the loss, acknowledging the team’s improved second-half performance while congratulating Aston Villa on their victory.

In another thrilling encounter, Liverpool, the defending champions, faced Leeds United. Liverpool’s manager, Arne Slot, made a notable decision to bench Mohamed Salah for the third consecutive game. Liverpool initially took a 2-0 lead with both goals from Hugo Ekiti. However, Leeds fought back with a penalty by Dominic Calvert-Lewin and a quick goal from Anton Stuck, leveling the score. Despite Dominic Szoboszlai’s goal giving Liverpool a 3-2 lead, Leeds equalized again in stoppage time with Ao Tanaka’s goal, ending the match 3-3. Liverpool now has 23 points from 15 matches, sitting in 8th place, while Leeds is in 16th with 15 points.

Arne Slot explained his tactical decision regarding Salah, noting his desire to control the game with the lead. He expressed regret over conceding late goals that cost them the win.

In other league action, Manchester City hosted Sunderland and secured a decisive 3-0 victory. Ruben Dias opened the scoring with a long-range shot, followed by a header from Josko Gvardiol in the first half. Phil Foden sealed the win with a header in the second half. Sunderland ended the match with 10 players after Luke O’Nine’s red card in stoppage time. Manchester City’s win moved them to 2nd place with 31 points, just two points behind Arsenal, while Sunderland remains in 7th place with 23 points.