Arsenal strengthened their position at the top of the Premier League with a 1-0 victory over Brighton & Hove Albion at the American Express Stadium on Thursday.
Bukayo Saka scored the only goal in the ninth minute of his 300th appearance for Arsenal, with his low shot deflecting off Carlos Baleba and beating goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen.
Brighton pressured in response, creating several chances. Arsenal defender Gabriel Magalhaes made an important early intervention, and goalkeeper David Raya produced a key save to deny Brighton’s Georginio Rutter in the second half. Arsenal had a late opportunity to extend their lead, but Leandro Trossard failed to convert from close range. Despite Brighton’s efforts, Arsenal held on for the three points.
The win moves Arsenal seven points clear of second-placed Manchester City, who were held to a 2-2 draw by Nottingham Forest at the Etihad Stadium.
City took the lead in the 31st minute when Antoine Semenyo volleyed home from Rayan Cherki’s cross. Nottingham Forest equalised 11 minutes into the second half with a backheel finish from Morgan Gibbs-White. Rodri restored City’s advantage with a header from a corner, marking his first league goal since May 2024. However, Forest levelled again in the 76th minute when Elliot Anderson curled a long-range effort into the bottom corner.
Following the draw, Manchester City remain on 60 points, seven behind Arsenal but with a game in hand. Nottingham Forest move to 17th place with 28 points, sitting just outside the relegation zone on goal difference. Brighton remain 13th with 37 points.