Losing 2 matches in a row, Arsenal is at a disadvantage in the Premier League championship race

Arsenal's ability to compete for the championship continues to be questioned. After being defeated 0-2 by West Ham at home, coach Mikel Arteta's team lost to Fulham in round 20 of the Premier League.

The visitors started the game smoothly with an early goal from a counter-attack in the 5th minute. Fulham goalkeeper Bernd Leno parried Gabriel Martinelli's shot, but it bounced right to Bukayo Saka. The English midfielder easily put the ball into an empty net to open the scoring.

Arsenal played poorly against Fulham. (Photo: Getty Images)

An early lead did not mean an easy game for Arsenal. Coach Mikel Arteta's players struggled against the fierce challenges of their opponents. They could not control the midfield.

Fulham's ball retention was also not bad. The home team equalized in the first half with a counter-attack. Tom Cairney assisted Raul Jimenez to score from close range against Arsenal.

The game did not change after the break, although Arsenal tried to push up the pitch and attack more. Saka and his teammates could not increase the tempo of the game and put pressure on their opponents. When the match was at a standstill, Arsenal players were confused and had many situations where they handled the game incorrectly or made bad decisions.

Meanwhile, Arsenal's defense continued to be careless. Gabriel Magalhaes cleared the ball and it hit teammate Takehiro Tomiyasu. Bobby Reid seized the opportunity to score from close range to put Fulham ahead in the 59th minute.

The Gunners are at risk of being left behind by leaders Liverpool. (Photo: Getty Images)

The Gunners were even more confused. They continued to be stuck in finding an effective attacking plan. Arsenal's slowness and indecision made them completely outclassed by the home team's strength in the contest. The Gunners could not score and lost 1-2.

Losing 1-2, Arsenal is stuck in 4th place on the rankings and is only 1 point ahead of Tottenham. Tottenham beat Bournemouth 3-1 in the same match with 3 goals from Sarr, Son Heung-min and Richarlison.