Arsenal extended their lead at the top of the Premier League to seven points with a hard-fought 1‑0 victory against Brighton & Hove Albion at the Amex Stadium. The win strengthens Mikel Arteta’s side’s position in the title race as the season enters its final stages.
The decisive goal came in the ninth minute when Bukayo Saka cut in from the right and fired a low shot that deflected past Brighton goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen. The strike marked Saka’s 300th competitive appearance for Arsenal, adding significance to his early contribution.
Brighton responded by dominating possession at times and creating several promising chances, but the hosts were unable to break through Arsenal’s resilient defence. Arsenal had few shots on target after Saka’s opener, yet crucial interventions and a solid performance from goalkeeper David Raya ensured the lead held.
Substitutes like Yankuba Minteh forced moments of danger for the Gunners, but Brighton could not capitalise. Arsenal’s defensive organisation and quick counter-attacks helped them maintain control of the match despite Brighton’s pressure.
The win moves Arsenal to 67 points from 30 matches, while second-placed Manchester City, who drew 2‑2 with Nottingham Forest on the same night, remain on 60 points with a game in hand. This result widens the gap and boosts Arsenal’s title ambitions.
This marks Arsenal’s third consecutive league victory, maintaining their strong run of form since the start of the year. The Gunners now face the challenge of sustaining consistency and managing expectations as they aim for their first top-flight title since 2004.
Brighton, meanwhile, remain mid-table after the defeat, with inconsistent form in recent weeks. Despite their effort in the match, they were unable to convert possession into goals, highlighting areas to address in their campaign.
The win also demonstrates Arsenal’s defensive solidity and tactical discipline under Arteta, key factors that have underpinned their current lead in the league standings.
With only a handful of matches remaining, Arsenal look poised to capitalise on their lead, while rivals will need to recover quickly to stay in contention for the title.
Fabian Hurzeler (Brighton manager) after losing to Arsenal: "There was only one team that tried to play football tonight. I will never be the kind of manager who tries to win it that way. The Premier League has to make clearer rules for time wasting, because they have to protect the referees."
Arteta: "We knew how tough it was going to be. We're coming back from very difficult games with a lot of intensity, with players really going through the line in every game with difficulties, not able to train and to come here and get the result that we got. I think it's remarkable."
Arteta: "I love my players. That's the highlight. I love my players, we love our players and I love the way we compete"
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FELIX MAKONA
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