Declan Rice experienced his first Premier League red card as Arsenal were held to a controversial 1-1 draw against Brighton at the Emirates Stadium on Saturday. Rice received his second yellow card after the interval for a minor infraction—kicking the ball away and failing to move away from the spot after fouling Brighton's Joel Veltman. The decision left Rice visibly confused and Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta questioning the referee, Chris Kavanagh, as fans voiced their displeasure.
Brighton's equalizer came from Joao Pedro in the wake of Rice's dismissal, ending Arsenal's perfect start to the season. The Gunners had previously won their opening two matches against Wolves and Aston Villa but now face a setback in their quest for the title, which they last won in 2004. Arsenal will be without Rice for their next match, a north London derby against Tottenham after the international break.
In the early stages of the game, Bukayo Saka troubled Brighton's Jack Hinshelwood, while Kai Havertz opened the scoring with a deft finish in the 38th minute. Despite Rice's initial yellow card for a foul on Veltman, he was sent off just after halftime, changing the dynamics of the game. Brighton capitalized on the numerical advantage, with Pedro scoring in the 58th minute following a brilliant pass from Lewis Dunk and a save by Arsenal's David Raya.
Arsenal had opportunities to regain the lead but were thwarted by Brighton's goalkeeper, Bart Verbruggen, who saved Havertz's shot and a follow-up effort from Saka. As the match concluded, Arsenal, down to ten men, managed to fend off Brighton’s attempts to secure a win, with Raya making crucial saves to preserve the draw. The result marked the end of Arsenal's winning streak and highlighted the impact of Rice's controversial red card on the outcome.
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