BBC‘s Match of the Day is bracing itself for a potentially “nightmare” scenario as the Premier League title race goes down to the wire, according to host Mark Chapman.
The thrilling battle between Arsenal and Manchester City is set to culminate on the final day of the season this Sunday (May 19), in what is shaping up to be the most nail-biting finish since Pep Guardiola’s side clinched the championship in 2022.
On that occasion, City staged an impressive second-half comeback to defeat Aston Villa 3-2, edging out Liverpool for the top spot, reports the Mirror.
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This Sunday could see history repeating itself when Guardiola’s men host West Ham at the Etihad. However, City could make life easier for themselves by securing all three points in their upcoming clash with Tottenham on Tuesday (May 14), which would put them two points clear of Arsenal ahead of the season’s final match.
On BBC Radio 5 Live Sport’s The Monday Night Club show, featuring Rory Smith and regular Match of the Day 2 host Mark Chapman, the duo delved into the gripping Premier League title race. Smith suggested that neutral fans should be rooting for a draw between City and Spurs, increasing the chances of the title being decided on goal difference.
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Arsenal, who welcome Everton to the Emirates on Sunday, are sitting pretty with a three-goal edge on +61, while City’s at +58. Smith quipped: “I think as neutrals we should probably want it to be a draw so that it goes down to goal difference on the final day, that’s the dream scenario just who can score more goals with Arsenal with a three-goal head start, that’s perfect, that makes Match of the Day fantastic.”
Chapman wasn’t having it though, as he hit back: “That makes it a nightmare to edit,” and Smith fired back: “We’re not here to sympathise with the editors Chapman”.
(Image: BBC / Pete Dadds)
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Should the title race come down to goal difference, it’ll be a right headache for the Match of the Day team, with the Premier League trophy potentially hopping between City and Arsenal several times on the climactic final day.
Every game kicks off at 4pm on Sunday, meaning the title should be decided by around 6pm. Gary Lineker will then front Match of the Day later that night, with the show beginning on BBC1 at 10.30pm and due to run until 12.20am.