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

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. Arsenal stumble in 2023 finale, fall 2-1 behind FulhamArsenal stumble in 2023 finale, fall 2-1 behind FulhamArsenal lose last game of 2023 – Getty image 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.

Milan stumble 3-1 at home against Dortmund, after Chukwueze’s spectacle

Milan stumble 3-1 at home against Dortmund, after Chukwueze's spectacle

Milan faced yet another setback with a 3-1 home defeat against Borussia Dortmund, after Samuel Chukwueze’s first half leveler. Olivier Giroud’s six minutes penalty was denied by Dortmund’s goalkeeper, and Milan struggled to maintain control throughout the match. The penalty came, following a handball by Schlotterbeck. However, the French striker’s weak kick was saved by Gregor Kobel. Dortmund quickly capitalized on an opportunity, earning a penalty themselves, which Marco Reus successfully converted.

UCL: Milan stumble 3-1 at home against Dortmund, after Chukwueze's spectacle

Samuel Chukwueze scored his first goal for AC Milan in the match – Getty image Milan responded with a brilliant solo effort from Samuel Chukwueze. The Nigerian dribbled past two defenders, to level the score at half time, marking his first goal for the Italian side. Unfortunately for Milan, the second half took an unexpected turn, as Milan defender Malick Thiaw sustained a hamstring injury, forcing a defensive reshuffle. Dortmund took advantage of the situation, with Jamie Bynoe-Gittens restoring their lead with a well-placed shot. The woes continued for Milan as substitute Karim Adeyemi sealed Dortmund’s victory with a quick strike from the edge of the area. Despite late attempts from Milan, including a header from Luka Jovic hitting the woodwork, they couldn’t overturn the deficit. This defeat leaves Milan at risk of dropping into the Europa League, as the sit at the bottom of Group F.