'Referee saved Man City from thrashing' — Ex-Super Eagles coach praises Arsenal

Former Dortmund and Milan midfielder Sunday Oliseh lauded Arsenal's performance against Manchester City and believes the unfortunate red card sustained by Leandro Trossard just before half-time spared the Cityzens a heavy defeat. 

The clash was billed to be a cagey contest, but the start betrayed the forecast as the match burst into life early on. 

Manchester City scored inside the first ten minutes after Savio released Haaland into space. The Norwegian finished with aplomb to give the champions the lead. 

Arsenal restored parity, slightly against the run of play in the 22nd minute, thanks to a stunner from new signing Riccardo Calafiori. The Gunners then went ahead in first-half injury time after a towering header from Gabriel Maghalaes. 

However, Mikel Arteta's team could not go into the break with excitement, as Belgian international Trossard received him marching orders. 

The Gunners were forced to camp in front of their own area due to their numerical inferiority; still, they came close to escaping unscathed, but for a late John Stones equaliser that ensured spoils were shared. 

The Super Eagles legend was enamoured by Arsenal's gutsy performance and believes they would have been victorious had Trossard not received a second yellow card for delaying restart. 

“Arsenal totally deserved victory over Man. City,” the former Super Eagles coach said on X. “This doubtful red card saved Man City some thrashing from a well-organised Arsenal side in my opinion. Compact, direct playing  with a world class goal keeper. Arsenal could be champions this year!”