Brian Brobbey struck deep into stoppage time to snatch a dramatic 2-2 draw for Sunderland against Premier League leaders Arsenal at the Stadium of Light.
The contest burst into life after a cagey opening, with former Arsenal academy graduate Dan Ballard breaking the deadlock in the 36th minute.
The defender powered past Declan Rice and fired home emphatically to end the Gunners’ run of eight consecutive clean sheets in all competitions.
Arsenal regrouped after the interval and deservedly levelled when Bukayo Saka drilled a low shot beyond Robin Roefs following a slick move initiated by Mikel Merino.
With momentum firmly on their side, the visitors turned the game around in the 74th minute as Leandro Trossard curled a brilliant effort into the top corner from distance.
Just when it looked like Arsenal would extend their winning streak, Sunderland hit back in stoppage time. Ballard rose highest to flick on a long throw, and substitute Brobbey reacted quickest to stab the ball past David Raya, sparking wild celebrations among the home fans.
There was still time for late drama at both ends, Roefs kept out Riccardo Calafiori’s close-range strike, while Ballard bravely blocked Merino’s rebound as the Black Cats clung on for a memorable point.
Sunderland, unchanged for a third straight match, produced a spirited display against an Arsenal side featuring three changes from their midweek Champions League win, with Eberechi Eze, Martin Zubimendi, and Calafiori starting.
Despite Arsenal’s control for much of the second half, the hosts’ resilience paid off in the dying moments, ensuring the leaders left Wearside with just a single point.
