Arsenal Held to Frustrating 0-0 Draw at Nottingham Forest, Maintain Seven-Point Lead

In a tightly contested Premier League encounter on January 17, 2026, league leaders Arsenal were unable to capitalize on a golden opportunity, settling for a goalless stalemate away at Nottingham Forest's City Ground. The result preserved the Gunners' commanding advantage at the top of the table, extending their lead over second-placed Manchester City to seven points following City's earlier slip-up.

Mikel Arteta's side dominated possession and created several promising chances, but they were repeatedly thwarted by an inspired Matz Sels in the Forest goal. The Belgian goalkeeper produced a string of fine saves, including a standout stop to deny Declan Rice, while a controversial late penalty appeal for handball against Ola Aina was waved away after VAR review. Arsenal's attack, featuring the likes of Martin Ødegaard, Noni Madueke, and Viktor Gyökeres, lacked its usual cutting edge on a day when clinical finishing deserted them.

For Nottingham Forest, battling in 17th place and just five points clear of the relegation zone, the hard-earned point represented a valuable boost under Sean Dyche. The Tricky Trees frustrated their high-flying visitors with disciplined defending and limited Arsenal to few clear-cut opportunities.

While the draw denied Arsenal the chance to potentially stretch their lead to nine points, it still strengthened their position in the title race amid growing pressure from chasers like Aston Villa. The Gunners will now turn their focus to upcoming fixtures, determined to avoid any repeat of past seasons where leads have evaporated. Forest, meanwhile, will take confidence from holding the league's best side to a blank sheet.