Arsenal were left frustrated at the Stadium of Light as Sunderland produced a spirited performance to earn a dramatic 2-2 draw, thanks to Brian Brobbey’s last-gasp equaliser. Mikel Arteta’s side looked set to take all three points before the hosts struck late to claim a result that reflected their relentless energy and determination.

The Gunners had taken control in the second half after weathering a fierce start from Sunderland, who pressed aggressively and unsettled Arsenal’s backline. Despite their early pressure, it was Arsenal who struck first when Bukayo Saka converted from close range following slick interplay between Martin Ødegaard and Gabriel Jesus.

Sunderland, however, refused to be overawed. Their intensity and direct play constantly tested Arsenal’s defensive structure, and they were rewarded when Abdoullah Ba’s clever run opened space for Patrick Roberts, whose curling effort brought the home side level before the break.

Arteta’s men regained the lead midway through the second half as Declan Rice’s driving run created chaos in the Sunderland box, allowing Leandro Trossard to finish clinically from the rebound. At that stage, Arsenal appeared to have done enough to secure victory, controlling possession and dictating the tempo.

But Sunderland’s resilience never faded. Roared on by their home supporters, they pushed forward in the dying minutes. Their persistence paid off in stoppage time when substitute Brian Brobbey pounced on a loose ball inside the area to fire home the equaliser, sparking jubilant scenes around the stadium.

For Arsenal, it was a missed opportunity to close the gap at the top of the Premier League table, while for Sunderland, it was a statement of intent — a performance full of energy, bravery, and belief.

Speaking after the match, Mikel Arteta admitted his disappointment at the late setback but acknowledged Sunderland’s effort. “We had control for long spells, but in this league, you can’t switch off. Sunderland fought for every ball and earned their point,” he said.

Sunderland manager Tony Mowbray, meanwhile, praised his side’s fighting spirit. “That’s the kind of performance our fans deserve — full of heart and commitment. We never gave up, and that mentality brought us the result,” he remarked.

As the final whistle blew, the result felt fair. Arsenal showed moments of quality, but Sunderland’s intensity and determination ensured they got the reward their display deserved — a hard-fought point that will give them huge confidence moving forward.