Arsenal suffered a damaging setback in the Premier League title race after losing 2-1 to Bournemouth at the Emirates Stadium.
The result denied Arsenal the opportunity to strengthen their position at the top of the table.
It also gives second-placed Manchester City the chance to close the gap in the title race.
Arsenal entered the match hoping to build momentum after their recent European victory over Sporting in the Champions League.
However, the performance against Bournemouth suggested the physical and mental toll of the season may be beginning to show.
The visitors started the game with greater confidence and quickly established control in the opening exchanges.
Bournemouth took the lead after 17 minutes through teenage forward Eli Junior Kroupi.
Adrien Truffert delivered a cross from the left that deflected across the penalty area before reaching Kroupi at the far post.
The forward finished from close range to give the visitors an early advantage.
Arsenal gradually responded after falling behind and began to push forward in search of an equaliser.
Their breakthrough arrived from the penalty spot when Ryan Christie handled the ball while attempting to block a shot.
Viktor Gyokeres stepped forward to convert the penalty and bring the score level.
Despite the equaliser, Arsenal struggled to impose sustained pressure on Bournemouth’s defence.
The visitors remained organised and continued to threaten on the counter-attack.
Mikel Arteta attempted to inject fresh energy into the match during the second half.
The Arsenal manager introduced attacking reinforcements including Eberechi Eze, Leandro Trossard and academy prospect Max Dowman.
However, Bournemouth delivered the decisive moment in the 74th minute.
Alex Scott ran onto a flick from Evanilson before finishing calmly past Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya.
The goal silenced the home crowd and left Arsenal chasing the game in the closing stages.
Arsenal pushed forward in search of another equaliser but struggled to create clear opportunities.
Bournemouth defended resolutely to protect their lead and secure an important away victory.
The win extended Bournemouth’s unbeaten run in the league and underlined their strong recent form under Andoni Iraola.
The defeat raises fresh questions about Arsenal’s ability to maintain their advantage in the title race.
With a crucial trip to face Manchester City approaching, the Gunners now face increased pressure during the final weeks of the season.
