Tech Giant Fans Hosts EPL Watch Party for Fans in Lagos

Premier League leaders Arsenal were held to a contentious 1-1 draw by a defiant ten-man Chelsea side at Stamford Bridge yesterday, a result that leaves the Gunners with a five-point cushion at the top, yet feeling they squandered a significant advantage.

The match was characterised by an unusually high level of aggression from the outset. Midway through the first half, the dynamic of the contest shifted dramatically when Chelsea midfielder Moisés Caicedo was sent off following a VAR review for a reckless, studs-up challenge on Arsenal’s makeshift striker, Mikel Merino.

Despite the numerical disadvantage, it was the hosts who broke the deadlock immediately after the restart. Defender Trevoh Chalobah flicked a header from a superb Reece James corner past David Raya in the 47th minute, sparking delirium amongst the home faithful.

Arsenal, who sorely missed first-choice centre-backs William Saliba and Gabriel, struggled initially to break down Chelsea’s compact, resilient defence. Mikel Arteta’s tactical changes, including the introduction of Martin Ødegaard, finally provided the necessary spark.

The equaliser arrived just before the hour mark when Bukayo Saka demonstrated a moment of brilliance on the right flank, twisting past his marker before delivering a perfect cross for Merino to head home decisively. While Arsenal pressed for a winner against the depleted Chelsea line-up, they could not find the decisive touch. The final whistle confirmed a 1-1 stalemate, a disappointing result for the Gunners given the hour spent playing against ten men, yet extending their unbeaten run to 17 matches in all competitions.

A watch party unfolded across two simultaneous watch parties at Cubana, Ikeja, and Johnny Rocket, Victoria Island. At Cubana Ikeja, Chelsea supporters erupted into celebrations following Chalobah’s opener, momentarily silencing the significant Arsenal contingency. The tension was palpable, a testament to the Premier League’s profound connection with Nigerian football fans.

Speaking during the event, MTN Nigeria’s Chief Marketing Officer, Onyinye Ikenna-Emeka, said: “At MTN, we believe every Nigerian deserves to be connected, seen, heard, and celebrated. That’s why we’re taking this experience across the country, from bustling cities to remote communities, ensuring no youth is left behind.”

Arsenal now turns its attention to a home fixture against Brentford, aiming to reclaim winning momentum and solidify its title charge heading into the festive period.