Arsenal secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Nottingham Forest at the City Ground, with a late deflected goal from substitute Noni Madueke proving decisive. The win keeps Mikel Arteta's side second in the Premier League, three points behind leaders Manchester City.
Madueke makes the difference
After a lacklustre first half, Arteta brought on Noni Madueke for Eberechi Eze at the break. The substitution initially seemed ineffective, with Madueke picking up a booking and struggling to make an impact in attack.
However, with ten minutes remaining, Madueke collected the ball on the left flank, cut inside, and unleashed a shot that flew past Forest goalkeeper Mats Sels via a deflection. It was a bold move from Arteta that proved to be the correct one.
Delap impresses for Forest
Liam Delap was Forest's biggest threat, following up his first goal for the club in last month's win over Villa with another strong performance. Although he did not score, his tireless running and physicality gave Forest a focal point, allowing them to advance up the pitch.
Delap has scored just two Premier League goals in the past 18 months, and more regular goals are needed, but performances like this are encouraging.
City Ground hoodoo ended
Arsenal had won only once in their last five visits to Forest, including an FA Cup defeat and consecutive 0-0 draws. Their only win at the City Ground since Forest's promotion came in January 2024.
Arsenal struggled for fluency and failed to produce a single shot on target in the first 75 minutes. But Madueke's goal was enough to seal a hard-fought three points, as champions find a way to win.
