Perfect revenge! Four different scorers as Arsenal end Villa's 11-match winning streak with a 4-1 victory, taking a 5-point lead after playing one more game.

At 04:15 on December 31st Beijing time, the 19th round of the Premier League features a top-three clash, with leaders Arsenal hosting third-placed Aston Villa.

In the first half, Watkins missed a great chance and neither side scored, ending the half 0-0; in the second half, Arsenal unleashed their firepower with goals from Gabriel, Soumaré, Trossard, and Jesus. Raya made a crucial save in stoppage time, and Watkins scored a late consolation goal, but it was too late to change the outcome.

In the end, Arsenal won 4-1 against Aston Villa, not only avenging their previous defeat but also halting Villa’s 11-match winning streak across all competitions; Arsenal now lead by 5 points having played one more game.

Arsenal lined up in a 4-3-3 under Arteta, with Saka, Yokores, and Trossard forming the front three, Ødegaard, Soumaré, and Merino in midfield, and Timber, Saliba, Gabriel, and Incapier as the back four, Raya in goal; their starting XI was valued at €720 million. Emery’s side used a 4-2-3-1 with Watkins upfront, supported by Rodgers, Buendía, and Sancho on the flanks, Tielemans and Onana as the Belgian double pivot, Digne, Lindelöf, Konsa, and Boga in defense, and Martínez in goal; their starting lineup was worth €291 million.

In terms of squad strength, Arsenal clearly outclassed Aston Villa. Emery relied on former Manchester United players Sancho and Lindelöf, and Villa’s recent 11-match winning streak highlighted the coach’s skill. Playing at home, Arsenal capitalized on Villa’s overambitious away approach. Watkins’ missed chance in the first half was a rare opportunity for Villa, who struggled to create many scoring chances. Arsenal’s second-half offensive surge overwhelmed Villa’s defense, possibly worn out by their busy schedule and multi-competition commitments. Gabriel’s return opened the scoring, Soumaré extended the lead, Trossard contributed with a goal and assist, and Jesus netted his first goal since returning. Arsenal’s 4-1 home victory ended Villa’s 11-match winning run and served as successful revenge, giving them a 5-point lead and shifting pressure onto Manchester City, who face Sunderland away this round.

Throughout the match, Arsenal held 47% possession, took 22 shots with 7 on target; Aston Villa managed 11 shots with 3 on target.