Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal were forced to settle for a point on Saturday evening as Nottingham Forest produced a heroic defensive display to hold the Premier League leaders.
Despite dominating possession and creating numerous chances, the Gunners found Forest keeper Matz Sels in inspired form.
Sels produced a world-class save to deny Bukayo Saka in the second half, while Gabriel Martinelli missed a golden opportunity to break the deadlock from close range.
The result marks the first time since 2012 that Arsenal have played out consecutive goalless draws in the Premier League.
Forest manager Sean Dyche praised his players’ “heart and soul,” noting that the point pulls his side five points clear of the relegation zone.
For Arsenal, the result feels like a missed opportunity to truly capitalise on Manchester City’s defeat earlier in the day.
Although their lead at the summit has technically increased to seven points, Arteta lamented his side’s lack of clinical finishing in the final third.
The Gunners now turn their attention to a demanding run of February fixtures, knowing that any further slip-ups could allow the chasing pack—led by a resurgent Aston Villa—to close the gap.