Arsenal secured a 2-0 victory over Brentford, extending their unbeaten streak to 18 matches across all competitions. The win was sealed by Mikel Merino's powerful header and Bukayo Saka's late strike, moving Arsenal five points clear at the top of the Premier League table.
Noni Madueke and Ben White's seamless link-up play set up Merino for his second consecutive goal, while Saka's through ball in the dying moments of the game sealed the deal. This was Merino's fifth goal of the season, and his 21st of a prolific 2025 campaign for both club and country.
Madueke, making his first start since September's encounter with Manchester City, caused problems for Rico Henry, forcing a good save from Caoimhin Kelleher. Brentford, known for their potent set-piece attacks, almost equalized through a corner, but David Raya's brilliant save kept them at bay.
The right flank was a constant source of danger for Arsenal. Riccardo Calafiori's backheel found White, who then set up Gabriel Martinelli, though his shot went over the bar. Madueke almost scored, but his effort was blocked by Henry.
As the game progressed, Brentford continued to threaten with corners and long throws. David Raya's confident collection of set pieces helped preserve Arsenal's clean sheet. To strengthen their attack in the second half, Arsenal brought on Eberechi Eze and Bukayo Saka, who almost made an immediate impact.
Saka's cross found Declan Rice, who then fed Calafiori for a low drive that Kelleher parried. Merino was then denied by Kelleher, and the Irishman also thwarted Rice's long shot. As the game neared its end, Calafiori went close, but Kelleher again came to Brentford's rescue.
However, Arsenal's persistence paid off in the final moments. Saka, making his first appearance of the game, received a pass from Merino and, with a back-heel, unleashed a strike that proved too much for Kelleher. This late goal secured Arsenal's victory, moving them closer to the top of the league.
Up next, Arsenal faces Aston Villa at Villa Park on December 6th at 12:30 pm, followed by a Champions League match against Club Brugge in Belgium on Wednesday.
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