Arsenal have taken a significant step in the Premier League title race with a hard-fought 3-2 victory over Bournemouth at the Vitality Stadium. The win, secured by a brace from the returning Declan Rice, pushes the Gunners' lead at the summit to six points ahead of Manchester City's fixture on Sunday.
Dramatic First Half Sets the Tone
The match began in disastrous fashion for the visitors when defender Gabriel Magalhaes made a shocking error, gifting the ball to Bournemouth's Evanilson for a simple finish. However, the Brazilian centre-back spectacularly redeemed himself just minutes later, unleashing a thunderous strike to bring the scores level.
Arsenal struggled to break down a resolute Bournemouth defence for the remainder of the first period, with Martin Odegaard weaving in midfield but finding few clear openings. The hosts remained a threat on the counter-attack, ensuring the sides went into the break all square.
Rice Fires Gunners to Victory
The second half exploded into life almost immediately. Captain Martin Odegaard found Declan Rice on the edge of the box, and the England midfielder coolly slotted home to give Arsenal the lead. Rice, who missed the midweek match, was not finished there.
He sealed his double and what proved to be the winning goal after a swift team move. Odegaard's pass released substitute Bukayo Saka down the right, and his cut-back found Rice unmarked to hammer the ball into the net. The midfielder's clinical finishing turned the game decisively in Arsenal's favour.
Late Scare and Player Performances
Bournemouth refused to surrender and set up a nervy finale when Junior Kroupi scored a spectacular goal for the hosts. Despite late pressure, Mikel Arteta's side held firm to secure three crucial points.
In the player ratings, Declan Rice was the standout performer with a 9/10 for his match-winning contribution. Jurrien Timber and Martin Odegaard also impressed, earning 8/10 ratings for their influential displays. Gabriel recovered from his early mistake to score and finished with a 7, while substitutes like Bukayo Saka made an immediate impact with an assist.
This result places immense pressure on title rivals Manchester City and represents a major psychological boost for Arsenal in their pursuit of the Premier League crown. The Gunners demonstrated resilience to overcome an early setback and the quality to seize control when it mattered most.
