Buendia Stuns Arsenal at the Death as Aston Villa End 18-Match Unbeaten Run

• Emiliano Buendia struck deep into stoppage time to hand Aston Villa a dramatic 2-1 win over league leaders Arsenal, ending their remarkable 18-match unbeaten streak in all competitions.

Emiliano Buendia shattered Arsenal’s 18-match unbeaten run with a last-minute strike that sealed Aston Villa’s dramatic 2-1 victory at Villa Park on Saturday.

Arsenal fell behind in the first half when Matty Cash powered in Ian Maatsen’s cross, leaving Mikel Arteta’s side chasing the game from the 36th minute. The Gunners responded after the interval, with Leandro Trossard coming off the bench to finish Bukayo Saka’s low cross and level the score.

Both teams created—and wasted—clear chances in a frenetic encounter, as Ollie Watkins and Martin Odegaard tested the goalkeepers at either end.

Just when the match appeared destined for a draw, Arsenal failed to clear their lines in the dying seconds. Buendia pounced, blasting a fierce finish into the roof of the net to spark wild celebrations among the home supporters.

The defeat is Arsenal’s first since August 31, when Liverpool handed them their only other loss of the season. Villa, now just three points behind the leaders, continue an outstanding run of form that has thrust them into the title conversation despite manager Unai Emery insisting otherwise.

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With Manchester City also closing in, Arsenal face increasing pressure as they navigate a growing defensive injury crisis, with William Saliba, Gabriel and Cristhian Mosquera all sidelined.

Arteta has admitted the club may need reinforcements in January as they push for their first Premier League title since 2004.