Arsenal’s draw against Brentford on Friday, February 13, 2026, was marred by controversy as Gabriel Magalhaes arguably should have received a second yellow card. The incident occurred during a match that ended 1-1 at Gtech Community Stadium, with Noni Madueke opening the scoring for the Gunners before Keane Lewis-Potter equalized.
The result leaves Arsenal still atop the Premier League table with 57 points, but only four points ahead of Manchester City in second place. Brentford currently sits seventh with 40 points.
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The contentious moment came in the 82nd minute when Gabriel challenged Dango Ouattara, making contact with the Brentford player’s stomach. Despite already being on a yellow card, referee John Brooks opted not to issue a second caution.
Former head of the Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL) Keith Hackett believes Gabriel should have been sent off. A second yellow would have resulted in a red card, as the Arsenal defender was previously booked in the 20th minute. Hackett stated, “The challenge by Gabriel was reckless and not the type of challenge you make when you’re already on a yellow card.”
Hackett continued, “The referee clearly gave him the benefit of the doubt in this instance.” Gabriel played the full 90 minutes despite the incident. This decision could have significant implications as Arsenal continues its pursuit of the Premier League title.
“The challenge that Gabriel made was careless and not the kind of challenge you would expect from someone already on a yellow card,” Hackett told Give Me Sport.
“The referee clearly has given him a lot of leeway in this,” he added.
(pur/aff)
