Arsenal delivered an exceptional performance at the Emirates Stadium on Sunday, defeating Manchester City 5-1 in a commanding display that saw Mikel Arteta’s side assert their dominance.
With the match edging towards its final stages, the Gunners sent a clear message to the league, remaining within striking distance of table-toppers Liverpool.
The match kicked off with early intensity as Kai Havertz played a crucial role in setting up Martin Ødegaard for the opening goal in the second minute.
Ødegaard’s composed strike put Arsenal ahead, capitalising on Havertz’s pinpoint delivery into the box. Despite a promising offside call against Gabriel Martinelli in the sixth minute, Arsenal continued to exert pressure on City’s defence.
Manchester City equalised in the 55th minute, with Erling Haaland’s deft header bringing the scoreline level at 1-1 after a superb cross from Savinho.
However, Arsenal responded swiftly, with Thomas Partey capitalising on a rare mistake from City to regain the lead in the 56th minute, followed by a calm finish from Myles Lewis-Skelly in the 62nd, making it 3-1.
As City struggled to contain Arsenal’s fluid attacking movement, Havertz extended the lead further with a well-placed strike in the 76th minute.
The final nail in the coffin came in added time, as 16-year-old Ethan Nwaneri sealed the victory with a clinical finish into the left corner, making it 5-1.
Despite multiple substitutions and tactical adjustments from both sides, Arsenal’s resolve never faltered. Arteta’s side was sharp in both defence and attack, with the midfield trio of Ødegaard, Declan Rice, and Partey ensuring complete control over the game.
City’s attempts to break through Arsenal’s defence were thwarted, with goalkeeper David Raya making key saves to preserve his side’s advantage.