Arsenal survive late Brighton storm to seal gritty Emirates victory

By Kazeem Ugbodaga

Arsenal returned to the summit with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Brighton & Hove Albion in their Premier League match at the Emirates Stadium on Saturday.

The Gunners dominated the early exchanges and were rewarded in the 14th minute when Martin Ødegaard opened the scoring with a precise finish into the bottom corner after being set up by the lively Bukayo Saka.

Arsenal continued to press, creating several chances through Saka, Leandro Trossard and Viktor Gyökeres, but Brighton goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen kept the visitors in contention with a series of fine saves.

Brighton grew into the contest as the half progressed, enjoying spells of possession, but Arsenal’s defensive organisation ensured they went into the break with a deserved 1-0 lead.

The hosts doubled their advantage shortly after the restart in fortuitous circumstances. From a Declan Rice corner in the 52nd minute, Brighton defender Georginio Rutter inadvertently turned the ball into his own net while attempting to clear, handing Arsenal a two-goal cushion.

Brighton responded positively and pulled one back in the 64th minute when Diego Gomez reacted quickest to a rebound inside the penalty area, calmly slotting home after Yasin Ayari’s effort had struck the post.

The goal injected renewed belief into the visitors, who pressed for an equaliser and came close through Yankuba Minteh, only to be denied by an excellent save from David Raya.

The closing stages were intense, with Arsenal forced to defend resolutely as Brighton pushed forward.

Late chances fell to Gabriel Martinelli and Saka, but the hosts were unable to extend their lead. Despite sustained pressure in stoppage time, Arsenal held firm to secure all three points.