Arsenal delivered a commanding 5-1 victory over Manchester City on Sunday afternoon at the Emirates Stadium, closing the gap on Premier League leaders Liverpool. Goals from Thomas Partey, Myles Lewis-Skelly, and Kai Havertz secured a comprehensive win for the Gunners, while Martin Odegaard and Erling Haaland each found the net within the opening ten minutes of the halves.
The home side wasted no time asserting dominance, breaking the deadlock just two minutes into the match. Leandro Trossard expertly dispossessed Manuel Akanji before combining with Kai Havertz to set up Martin Odegaard for a simple finish, leaving Stefan Ortega helpless. City’s defense struggled to regain composure and narrowly avoided further damage when Gabriel Martinelli’s goal was ruled offside. Despite Arsenal’s electric start, the game eventually settled into a more measured rhythm, with both sides vying for midfield control.
City’s first notable attempt came in the 15th minute through Omar Marmoush, but Arsenal maintained their composure and defensive organisation. Josko Gvardiol came close later in the half, directing a powerful header toward goal, only for David Raya to make a sensational save worthy of accolades.
Kai Havertz nearly extended Arsenal’s lead but sent his effort wide, reflecting his ongoing struggle for confidence. The game evolved into a tactical standoff, with both teams valuing possession over risk. However, the intensity reignited in the second half. Haaland’s powerful header beat Raya to level the score, but Arsenal responded immediately through a deflected strike from Partey, reclaiming their advantage within a minute.
Buoyed by renewed momentum, Arsenal pressed relentlessly. Myles Lewis-Skelly capitalized with a well-taken third goal, putting the Gunners firmly in control. Gabriel Martinelli then set up Havertz for Arsenal’s fourth, before substitute Ethan Nwaneri capped off the scoring with a fifth goal.
This emphatic win showcased Arsenal’s attacking prowess and determination, keeping them within six points of Liverpool, who face Everton in the upcoming Merseyside Derby.
