Arsenal stumble in 2023 finale, fall 2-1 behind Fulham

Arsenal faced a disappointing end to 2023 with a 2-1 defeat against Fulham at Craven Cottage, despite an early lead.

Bukayo Saka provided the lead for Mikel Arteta’s team with a close-range finish within the first five minutes.

However, Raul Jimenez’s goal for Fulham just before the half-hour mark equalized the score.

The turning point came in the second half when De Cordova-Reid capitalized on Arsenal’s defensive lapse to secure the winning goal for Fulham.

The Gunners’ inability to contain Fulham’s attacks ultimately cost them the game, as they missed a crucial opportunity to keep pace in the title race.

The defeat leaves Arsenal in the fourth position in the league table, having lost two straight games within one week.