In a key match of the 26th round of the 2025/26 Premier League season , Arsenal took the lead after a goal from Maduk, but failed to regain the lead after conceding a goal, ultimately being held to a 1-1 draw by Brentford. England star Rice stated that this point could be very important towards the end of the season and urged the team to remain focused.

In the 61st minute, Incapie chipped a pass across the goal after dealing with the defense, and Maduk headed the ball into the net, giving Arsenal a 1-0 lead.

In the 71st minute, Kayorde took a throw-in, Van den Berg headed the ball across, and Lewis Porter headed it into the net, leveling the score at 1-1 for Brentford.

Arsenal were ultimately held to a 1-1 draw away to Brentford. After a run of 2 wins, 2 draws, and 1 loss in their last 5 matches, Arsenal currently sit atop the table with 57 points, 4 points ahead of title rivals Manchester City in second place.

Arsenal midfielder Rice said: "We were never naive enough to think it would be an easy game. Brentford is a very good team, currently 7th in the league, and Keith Andrews has made them play very well. They are very efficient, and we were prepared for that and knew what we would face."

"This point could be very important towards the end of the season. All we can do is stay focused, just like we've been doing. We've had an amazing season and a great record. Look at the games we've played and the number of wins we've had; we've only lost three so far. So we need to stay positive, keep moving forward, work hard, and stay united. Everyone is important in the final stretch of the season. It's a long journey, but we remain optimistic."

Rice noted, "It was a very tough game. The opponent dominated for the first 20 minutes, then we took control for the next 25 minutes and played very well before halftime. We also started the second half well, and the goal was well deserved. Then they dominated for the last 25 minutes. The game was divided into several phases, and the final result could have been unpredictable."

“We really wanted to win and wanted to show dominance, but ultimately we had to accept this point and move on. We have to keep working hard; we've played a lot of games this season and need to stay mentally and physically fit. Now we need to focus on the next game and move on.”

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