Arsenal bounced back from their recent setbacks on Saturday afternoon, achieving a 4-2 victory against Leicester City at the Emirates Stadium.
The Gunners took control early in the match, with Jurriën Timber delivering a low cross to Gabriel Martinelli, who netted his first Premier League goal of the season with a precise shot. Martinelli was instrumental in Arsenal’s attack during the first half and assisted Leandro Trossard, who extended the lead just before halftime.
Under manager Mikel Arteta, Arsenal dominated possession, holding 76% by the end of the first half. However, Leicester City struck back shortly after the interval, with James Justin’s shot, which was deflected off Kai Havertz from a free kick taken by Facundo Buonanotte.
Leicester’s goalkeeper Mads Hermansen made several critical saves against Gabriel Magalhães and Trossard, but Justin later equalized with a fantastic goal that hit the post before going in. A mistake in the back from Leicester allowed Declan Rice to set up Trossard, who had a chance saved by Hermansen.
As Arsenal searched for a late winner, they brought on Raheem Sterling and Ethan Nwaneri. After another save from Hermansen against Riccardo Calafiori, a corner in the 94th minute led to Trossard’s shot being deflected in by Wilfred Ndidi, securing the victory. Havertz then added a final goal, wrapping up the match.
This win placed Arsenal level on points with Manchester City, highlighting their ability to clinch late-game victories, particularly excelling in converting set pieces. Bukayo Saka’s impressive performance was also a highlight of the match.
Despite some lapses in concentration, particularly from Calafiori, the overall display was convincing. Manager Mikel Arteta rated a 7 out of 10 for his tactical decisions, as his team generated numerous chances.
Player evaluations included:
– GK David Raya: 5 – Limited involvement but conceded shortly after the restart.
– DF Riccardo Calafiori: 6 – Showed promise but had some defensively careless moments.
– DF Gabriel Magalhães: 6 – Solid in defense and won aerial duels.
– DF William Saliba: 7 – Strong performance with key challenges.
– DF Jurriën Timber: 7 – Effectively thwarted Leicester’s counterattacks.
– MF Thomas Partey: 6 – Helped to maintain midfield flow.
– MF Declan Rice: 7 – Influential in both defense and attack.
– MF Kai Havertz: 6 – Missed a few chances but scored late on.
– FW Gabriel Martinelli: 8 – Integral to attacking plays and scored the opener.
– FW Leandro Trossard: 8 – Scored and contributed significantly to the offense.
– FW Bukayo Saka: 9 – Constant threat on the right flank, creating multiple chances.
Substitutes introduced did not receive ratings, but Raheem Sterling and Ethan Nwaneri made positive impacts when they came on. Gabriel Jesus was brought in during stoppage time to help close out the game.