Arsenal extended their strong start to the Premier League season with a convincing 3-0 victory over Nottingham Forest at the Emirates Stadium, handing Ange Postecoglou a deflating debut as Forest manager. Martin Zubimendi opened the scoring in the 32nd minute with a spectacular volley, finding the top corner after a corner was cleared.
Just seconds into the second half, Viktor Gyökeres doubled Arsenal’s lead. A poor defensive clearance by Forest after the break allowed Eberechi Eze room to deliver a cross for Gyökeres, whose finish was simple but effective.
Zubimendi completed his brace (and Arsenal’s win) in the 79th minute, nodding in Leandro Trossard’s cross from a free-kick routine.
There was concern for the Gunners when captain Martin Ødegaard left the pitch with a shoulder injury in the first half. Despite his absence, Mikel Arteta’s side controlled possession and created the better chances, with goalkeeper David Raya making key saves to preserve his clean sheet on his 100th Arsenal appearance.
For Nottingham Forest, the match marked the first under new manager Ange Postecoglou, but his team struggled defensively and rarely threatened in attack. Chris Wood’s second-half header, saved smartly by Raya, was their closest opportunity.
Arsenal’s summer signings again played their part: Eberechi Eze, Noni Madueke and others added quality and sharpness in attack. Forest, by contrast, looked disorganised at times, particularly at the back, and failed to offer sustained threat. The Guardian+2Sky Sports+2
With this important victory, Arsenal find themselves positioned near the top of the Premier League table in the early stages of the season, riding a wave of positive momentum and confidence. The team’s strong performance has given supporters hope for a successful campaign ahead. On the other hand, Nottingham Forest, guided by their new manager Ange Postecoglou, face a range of challenges that need to be addressed if they are to improve their results and turn their season around. There is a significant amount of work to be done in terms of tactics, team cohesion, and overall performance if Forest are to rise up the standings and achieve their goals under the fresh leadership.
