From the outset, the match had a true derby atmosphere, with both teams aware of the crucial nature of the result.

Chelsea entered the game buoyed by their midweek Champions League victory over Barcelona, while Arsenal were equally confident after defeating Bayern Munich, resulting in a highly intense and competitive first half.

Bukayo Saka was the first to test the goalkeeper with a low shot that was saved by Robert Sanchez from close range, before Chelsea started to assert control, with Enzo Fernandez forcing a save from David Raya around the 30-minute mark.

The heated encounter had already seen four yellow cards when Moises Caicedo crossed the line in the 38th minute, receiving a straight red card for a reckless challenge on Mikel Merino.

Yet, this wasn’t unfamiliar territory for Chelsea, who have had six different players sent off in all competitions this season.

That sending off threatened to alter the game’s dynamic, but the home side held firm until halftime, with Sanchez making a crucial save to deny Gabriel Martinelli just before the break.

Likely satisfied with a draw under the circumstances, Chelsea supporters were soon celebrating again after the restart.

A Reece James set-piece found Joao Pedro, whose header was tipped around the post for a corner, and from the resulting delivery, James’ ball was flicked in at the near post by Trevoh Chalobah, leaving Raya with no chance.

Enzo Maresca’s team have now scored first in each of their last eight Premier League matches and aimed to limit Arsenal as they sought a fourth consecutive clean sheet.

Unfortunately for Maresca, that strategy lasted only 11 minutes as Mikel Merino powered in Saka’s precise cross to level the score just before the hour.

With momentum on their side, the visitors pushed for another goal, but Chelsea remained resilient and even threatened offensively.

Substitute Viktor Gyokeres fired a low shot towards goal late on, but Sánchez made the save before being knocked down as the striker followed up.

In the end, the two London rivals shared the points in a gripping contest that could have major implications at season’s end.

The Blues have won only one of their last 12 Premier League home meetings against Arsenal (4 draws, 7 losses), but this draw will feel like a victory to many home fans given the circumstances.

As a result, Chelsea remain six points behind league leaders Arsenal, whose nearest challenger is now Manchester City, five points adrift heading into December.

Flashscore Man of the Match: Reece James (Chelsea)

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