Arsenal seized the chance to reassert their title credentials with a 2-0 victory over Brentford at the Emirates Stadium, restoring their five-point advantage at the top of the Premier League table. The win, secured by an early Mikel Merino header and a late Bukayo Saka strike, provided a stark contrast to the previous night's chaotic 5-4 result involving Manchester City, underlining the Gunners' defensive solidity.
Merino Makes Early Breakthrough
The home side made an enterprising start, delighting their supporters with an incisive move that led to the opening goal after just 11 minutes. Mikel Merino rose highest to meet a perfectly floated cross from the overlapping Ben White, powering a header past Brentford goalkeeper Caoimhín Kelleher. It was the Spaniard's second goal in four days, capping a lovely team move that involved a clever decoy run and a slick assist from Noni Madueke, who was eager to impress in a rare start.
Defensive Resilience Tested by Injury
Despite the perfect start, Arsenal's rhythm was disrupted before half-time when defender Cristhian Mosquera was forced off injured. This compounded an existing crisis in central defence, with Gabriel Magalhães and William Saliba already unavailable. The unfamiliar partnership of Jurriën Timber and Piero Hincapié held firm against Brentford, but the loss presents a significant concern for the weekend's crucial trip to Aston Villa.
Brentford grew into the game after the break, testing Arsenal's resolve. David Raya was called into action to tip a powerful Kevin Schade header onto the crossbar from a corner. The visitors' physical, direct approach caused periods of tension, with Arsenal looking less cohesive in possession as the second half wore on.
Saka Seals the Points Late On
As the match entered six minutes of added time, the home fans grew restless, but any nerves were swiftly extinguished. Bukayo Saka, introduced from the bench, made sure of the points. Found by Merino, the England international drove forward and squeezed a precise shot past Kelleher to seal a 2-0 win.
The result marks Arsenal's eighth clean sheet of the Premier League season, a testament to their sturdiness despite mounting injury woes. Manager Mikel Arteta will be pleased with the three points but deeply concerned about his defensive options ahead of a demanding fixture schedule. For now, however, the Gunners have successfully maintained their grip on top spot.
