Bukayo Saka and Thomas Partey both produced sensational strikes before Ethan Nwaneri’s first Premier League goal sealed a commanding 3-0 victory for Arsenal over Nottingham Forest, bringing an end to their four-game winless streak in the top flight.
Mikel Arteta surprised many with his starting lineup, opting to rest key players like Thomas Partey, Declan Rice, and Kai Havertz, leaving them on the bench. Returning captain Martin Ødegaard, playing his first home game since August, took center stage and electrified the Emirates crowd with a dazzling first-half performance.
Ødegaard’s understanding with Bukayo Saka was pivotal, and it was their combination that led to Arsenal’s opener after just 15 minutes. The Norwegian flicked the ball into Saka’s path, allowing the England winger to surge across the box and unleash a stunning strike into the far corner.
Arsenal dominated proceedings, preventing Forest from posing any real threat. Goalkeeper David Raya had little to do as the Gunners relentlessly pressed forward. Before halftime, Gabriel Jesus narrowly missed the target after another clever move orchestrated by Ødegaard, while Forest goalkeeper Matz Sels made sharp saves to deny Saka and Leandro Trossard.
Arsenal’s 11 first-half shots all came from inside the box, with Saka involved in eight of them either as creator or shooter. Early in the second half, the winger added another assist to his tally, setting up Thomas Partey for a sublime 25-yard curling effort that doubled the Gunners’ lead.
The game, which on paper seemed a tricky challenge, became a comfortable showcase of Arsenal’s quality. Despite not winning a league match in 50 days, the Gunners looked assured and confident throughout. Nwaneri’s late goal added the finishing touch, making the 16-year-old the youngest-ever Premier League scorer and cementing a feel-good evening at the Emirates.
The victory moves Arsenal within six points of defending champions Manchester City, reminding everyone they are still very much in the title race.
