Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal has been using a key statistic to control games and orchestrate late comebacks this season.
The team’s current position at the top of the table is surprising given their failure to make the top four last season.
This success has been achieved by capitalizing on Liverpool, Chelsea, and Tottenham’s decline, as well as their own improved performances.
Despite facing several challenges this season, Arsenal managed to secure a thrilling 3-2 win over Bournemouth on Saturday.
Bournemouth managed to take a comfortable 2-0 lead, making it seem like Arsenal would lose the game.
Nevertheless, the Gunners made an impressive comeback, scoring three goals, with Reiss Nelson netting the winner in the 97th minute.
This is not the first time Arsenal has come back in the dying minutes of a game. In fact, they have scored the most winning goals after the 90th minute this season compared to any other team.
Arsenal’s secret to scoring late on
Arsenal’s three stoppage time winners this season were against Manchester United, Aston Villa, and Bournemouth.
As reported by Telegraph Sport, the Gunners’ ability to dominate possession has been a key factor in their success.
They have been able to wear down their opponents throughout the game, forcing them to retreat towards their own goal and allowing Arsenal to win the ball higher up the pitch.
In the second half of the games they have won late on, they have averaged a possession of 69% and played 134 passes in the final third, according to the same source.
The excitement in matches often comes from late goals, which may appear fortunate, but Arsenal’s style of play under Mikel Arteta enables them to capitalize on opportunities and remain competitive until the end of a match.
Similarly to Manchester United’s success in ‘Fergie time’, Arsenal’s ability to score late goals can intimidate their opponents, even when they have a comfortable lead, as demonstrated against Bournemouth.
Arsenal consistently display a championship-winning mentality, and it remains to be seen if they can achieve this goal.
