Arteta’s men move back into second

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Arsenal kicked off 2025 in style, coming from behind to defeat Brentford 3-1 at the Gtech Community Stadium.

Brentford stunned Arsenal early in the first half. Despite Arsenal dominating possession with over 80% of the ball in the opening minutes, it was the hosts who broke the deadlock.

In the 13th minute, Mikkel Damsgaard intercepted a pass from Martin Odegaard and launched a counter-attack, threading a perfect ball to Bryan Mbeumo.

The Brentford forward skillfully cut inside, evading Riccardo Calafiori, and finished past former team-mate David Raya at the near post.

Arsenal, shaken but undeterred, responded. Brentford nearly doubled their lead in the 28th minute when Keane Lewis-Potter’s shot slipped through Raya’s gloves, but the keeper recovered to prevent the ball from crossing the line.

Moments later, Gabriel Jesus capitalised on a defensive lapse to level the score.

Thomas Partey’s strike was parried by Brentford goalkeeper Mark Flekken, but Jesus was perfectly positioned to slot home the rebound.

The teams entered half-time locked at 1-1. Arsenal had controlled possession and created more opportunities, but Brentford’s counter-attacking threat kept them in the contest.

In the 50th minute, Mikel Merino turned a scrappy set-piece into a goal.

Ethan Nwaneri’s corner caused chaos in the box, with Flekken spilling the ball under pressure.

After a blocked effort from Jesus, Merino reacted quickest to slot the ball into the net, giving Arsenal a 2-1 lead.

Just three minutes later, Arsenal extended their advantage further. Nwaneri once again played a crucial role, delivering a cross that Brentford’s Nathan Collins could only partially clear.

Gabriel Martinelli latched onto the loose ball, taking one touch before unleashing a powerful strike past Flekken to make it 3-1.

After that, Brentford, despite their spirited efforts, struggled to create clear-cut chances against a resolute Arsenal backline.

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta made several changes to manage the game in the final stages. Odegaard, Nwaneri, and Merino were replaced by experienced heads like Jorginho, Leandro Trossard, and Declan Rice, ensuring Arsenal maintained control.

Brentford’s best chance to claw back a goal came in stoppage time. Mathias Jensen delivered a dangerous cross into the box, but despite a diving effort, it went unmet and drifted harmlessly out for a goal kick.

Arsenal’s victory sees them secure their 11th league win of the season and extend their unbeaten record in London derbies to an incredible 11 games. They remain firmly in the title race, piling pressure on league leaders Liverpool.

Brentford, meanwhile, will reflect on missed opportunities and defensive errors but can take solace in their strong overall home form this season.




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