Arsenal outclass Brentford as Saka seals commanding Emirates victory

By Kazeem Ugbodaga

Arsenal tightened their grip on the Premier League’s top positions on Wednesday night after a composed and commanding 2-0 win over Brentford at the Emirates, capped by a brilliant late finish from Bukayo Saka.

The Gunners were dominant from the opening whistle and forced Brentford into retreat for much of the game, with Mikel Merino and Saka delivering the decisive blows in a match that showcased Arsenal’s control, patience and ruthlessness.

The breakthrough came in the 11th minute. Ben White lofted a superb cross into the box, and Merino leapt above everyone to head home from close range.

The Brentford goalkeeper, Caoimhin Kelleher, was rooted as the ball flew past him for 1-0.

Arsenal nearly doubled their lead minutes later, with Noni Madueke and Ben White both missing huge chances, while Gabriel Martinelli fired high from inside the area. Brentford, meanwhile, struggled to create clear openings despite enjoying spells of possession.

Brentford’s best chance of the night came in the 21st minute when Kevin Schade forced goalkeeper David Raya into a stunning fingertip save that pushed the ball onto the crossbar.

The visitors produced moments of pressure but were repeatedly frustrated by Arsenal’s organisation at the back.

The first half ended with Arsenal still in control but unable to extend their slim advantage.

The second half saw Arsenal reassert their dominance, threading together crisp, intricate passes that left Brentford chasing shadows. The home fans sensed a second goal was coming, and it arrived in stoppage time.

A clever pass from Merino sliced through Brentford’s defensive line, and Saka showed ice-cold composure as he powered the ball into the top corner to make it 2-0. It was the winger’s reward after earlier forcing Kelleher into a superb save.

Brentford’s late attempts to respond came to nothing, with Sepp van den Berg seeing a low drive blocked in the dying moments.