Oliver Glasner reveals unexpected Arsenal star Crystal Palace targeted in 2-2 draw

Gidibam Web4 weeks ago

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Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner has revealed that his side specifically targeted Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya’s positioning during their 2-2 draw at the Emirates Stadium on Wednesday night.

The Gunners twice took the lead through goals from Jakub Kiwior and Leandro Trossard, but were pegged back on both occasions by strikes from Eberechi Eze and Jean-Philippe Mateta. Mateta’s late equaliser — a brilliant chipped finish in the 83rd minute — came after William Saliba gifted possession in a dangerous area, with Raya caught well off his line.

Following the match, Glasner explained that Raya’s advanced positioning had been a focal point in Palace’s tactical planning.

READ MORE: Mikel Arteta explains why Arsenal keep dropping points in the Premier League

“We showed the players yesterday when we were preparing for the opponent that David Raya is high [off his line],” Glasner said. “It was the third time we had this situation. The first one, Justin Devenny didn’t recognise it, so we missed it. Adam Wharton had a chance in the first half where he hit Thomas Partey — that could’ve been dangerous. And then came the third opportunity, and JP [Mateta] had this amazing finish.”

The result leaves Arsenal trailing Premier League leaders Liverpool by 12 points with just four games remaining. Liverpool will be crowned champions for a 20th time if they secure at least a point against Tottenham on Sunday.

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Mateta’s goal drew further analysis from pundits, with former England and Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher questioning Raya’s positioning and decision-making during the play.

“We’re going to see this more and more with goalkeepers being part of the back four,” Carragher said on Sky Sports. “But where I have a problem with David Raya is that, once Odegaard drops back as a centre-back, Raya has to get back into his goal.

“Maybe it’s because they were 2-1 up and a bit more relaxed. As soon as Saliba plays that ball, Raya doesn’t need to be there. And it’s a mess from Saliba — he was brilliant at the Bernabeu, but he lost focus for Real Madrid’s goal. That [Mateta’s finish] was absolutely outstanding.”

The result marked yet another frustrating night for Arsenal, who have now dropped points in 13 league games this season — with nine of those coming after taking the lead.