Brobbey’s late strike earns Sunderland point against Arsenal

Bryan Brobbey scored a sensational acrobatic equaliser deep into stoppage time as Sunderland held Premier League leaders Arsenal to a thrilling 2-2 draw at the Stadium of Light.

The newly promoted Black Cats, unbeaten at home this season, took the lead shortly before half-time when former Arsenal academy defender Dan Ballard pounced inside the box to fire home, ending the visitors’ remarkable run of 812 minutes without conceding.

Arsenal came out stronger after the break, with Declan Rice winning possession in midfield before Bukayo Saka squeezed a right-foot shot past Robin Roefs at the near post to level the score.

Mikel Arteta’s men looked to have completed the turnaround when Leandro Trossard unleashed a superb 20-yard strike into the top left corner, sparking celebrations among the travelling fans.

But Sunderland refused to fold. Substitute Bryan Brobbey, who had earlier been denied by David Raya, produced a moment of brilliance in the fourth minute of added time, an acrobatic scissor kick that beat Raya and sent the home crowd into raptures.

The result means Arsenal remain seven points clear at the top, though that gap could close when second-placed Manchester City face defending champions Liverpool on Sunday.

Sunderland, meanwhile, move up to third, maintaining their unbeaten home record in a season that continues to defy expectations.

Anthony Nlebem

Head of Sports at BusinessDay Media, a seasoned Digital Content Producer, and FIFA/CAF Accredited Journalist with over a decade of sports reporting.Has a deep understanding of the Nigerian and global sports landscape and skills in delivering comprehensive and insightful sports content.