Ten-man Chelsea hold Arsenal to 1–1 draw despite early red card at Stamford Bridge

Chelsea were held to a 1-1 draw by Arsenal in a bruising showdown at Stamford Bridge on Sunday. 

The game turned on an early setback for Chelsea when Moisés Caicedo was shown a red card just before half-time — his yellow upgraded for a studs-up challenge after a VAR review. 

Remarkably, Chelsea struck first after the break when Trevoh Chalobah nodded home a corner from Reece James just minutes into the second half. 

Arsenal responded on the hour when Bukayo Saka delivered a cross that was met by Mikel Merino, who powered a header past the Chelsea keeper to level the match. 

Chelsea, though down to ten men, defended resolutely for the remainder of the match and rebuffed several Arsenal chances. 

The draw leaves both teams taking a point — Chelsea showed grit despite the red card, and Arsenal will rue missed opportunities during their spell with a man advantage.