Arsenal midfielder Declan Rice made a costly error during the Tottenham clash on 22/2, losing possession and directly contributing to a goal. The moment drew immediate comparisons to Steven Gerrard's famous slip in 2014, a blunder that severely impacted Liverpool's Premier League title bid.

Ironically, just 24 seconds after celebrating Arsenal's opening goal in the 32nd minute and urging his teammates to maintain focus, Rice replicated Gerrard's miscue. He lost the ball to Kolo Muani, allowing Tottenham to equalize.

Gerrard (number 8) lost the ball to Demba Ba during Liverpool's 0-2 loss to Chelsea in the 2013-2014 Premier League. Photo: Sky Sports

Gerrard's error occurred during a 2013-2014 Premier League match between Liverpool and Chelsea. His slip allowed Demba Ba to score the opening goal, leading to a 0-2 defeat for Liverpool. This pivotal moment came shortly after the former England midfielder had rallied his teammates, emphasizing the importance of their title challenge. At the time, Liverpool held a five-point lead over Man City with three matches remaining but ultimately finished two points behind.

Arsenal was fortunate that Rice's mistake did not prove more damaging. After halftime, goals from Eberechi Eze and Viktor Gyokeres secured a 4-1 victory for the "Gunners".

Kolo Muani (center) bypasses Declan Rice (left) during Tottenham's 1-4 loss to Arsenal in round 27 of the Premier League on 22/2. Photo: Tottenham

Currently, Arsenal leads the Premier League with 61 points after 28 matches. Similar to Liverpool in 2014, Rice and his teammates hold a five-point advantage over Man City, though they have played one more game.

A crucial direct encounter between Arsenal and Man City is scheduled for 18/4 at the Etihad Stadium. Should manager Pep Guardiola's side win all 11 of their remaining matches, they would clinch the title regardless of Arsenal's other results.

Arsenal last won the Premier League in the 2003-2004 season. Over the past 22 years, competing against Man City, Man Utd, Chelsea, and Liverpool, the "Gunners" have often been sidelined in the title race. Finishing second this season would mark their fourth consecutive campaign as runners-up.

Arsenal's next two rounds are away matches against Chelsea and Brighton. They will then return home to face Everton and Bournemouth before their pivotal clash with Man City at the Etihad.

Thanh Quy