Arsenal keep title dream alive with tight Burnley victory

Mikel Arteta's side knew anything less than victory would damage their title hopes, and although the performance was not always comfortable, Arsenal once again showed the resilience that has kept them in the race with Manchester City.

The Gunners dominated possession early on but had to stay patient against a stubborn Burnley side. Leandro Trossard came closest when he drove a powerful low strike against the post, while Martin Odegaard also threatened with an effort that flashed narrowly wide after a deflection.

Arteta was left frustrated midway through the first half when Bukayo Saka's penalty appeals were waved away following a challenge from Lucas Pires. Arsenal continued to push forward though, and the breakthrough finally arrived from another set-piece just before half-time.

Havertz rose above the Burnley defence to head home from Saka's corner, scoring Arsenal's 18th league goal from a corner this season. The assist also marked Saka's 50th Premier League assist for the club.

Burnley threatened after the break, with Eberechi Eze forcing a fine save that tipped his looping strike onto the crossbar, but Arsenal remained in control for long periods. Havertz later survived a VAR check after a strong challenge on Lesley Ugochukwu, allowing the German forward to stay on the pitch and finish the game.

Despite searching for a second goal to improve their goal difference, Arsenal eventually settled for another narrow victory - their third consecutive 1-0 win in the league.

The result means Arsenal will now watch Manchester City's clash with Bournemouth closely on Tuesday. If City fail to win, the Premier League trophy will return to north London before the final day of the season.

Arteta admitted after the match that he will become Bournemouth's biggest supporter for one night as his close friend Andoni Iraola prepares to face Pep Guardiola's side.

"The biggest ever!" Arteta said when asked if he would support Bournemouth on Tuesday night.

"For Andoni, the players and the supporters, we are all Bournemouth fans because we know what it means if they get a result."

The Arsenal manager also praised Iraola's work this season and said Bournemouth would provide a serious challenge for City.

"What he has done at that football club has been incredible," Arteta added. "The transformation and the way they play means they do not need any extra motivation."

Arteta revealed he plans to watch the match at home with his family, although he admitted the nerves may be difficult to handle.

"I will be in front of the TV, but I don't know how much I will be able to watch," he said.

The pressure is now firmly on Manchester City, while Arsenal have given themselves a genuine chance of completing one of the club's most memorable title triumphs in modern Premier League history.