Odegaard ends goal drought as Arsenal edge past Brighton to reclaim top spot

Martin Ødegaard scored his first Premier League goal of the campaign as Arsenal held their nerve in a tense closing spell to secure a 2-1 victory over Brighton and move back to the summit of the table, Sport360NG reports.

The Gunners began the day in second after Manchester City’s earlier win, but they regained top position after taking control early at the Emirates Stadium. Brighton goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen’s misplaced goal-kick was intercepted, allowing Bukayo Saka to tee up Ødegaard, who swept a precise finish into the corner from the edge of the area.

Mikel Arteta’s side dominated the opening half but were unable to fully capitalise, heading into the break with only a single-goal advantage despite registering 15 attempts and limiting Brighton to no shots on target.

Arsenal doubled their lead shortly after the restart when Declan Rice, deputising at right-back, delivered a corner that was inadvertently diverted into his own net by Georginio Rutter. It was the fourth own goal Arsenal have benefited from in as many matches.

The hosts appeared on course for a comfortable afternoon before Brighton mounted a late response. Their first effort on target produced a goal as Yasin Ayari struck the post and Diego Gómez reacted quickest to drive home the rebound.

Fabian Hürzeler’s half-time introduction of Yankuba Minteh added pace and urgency, and Arsenal were forced to dig deep. Goalkeeper David Raya produced a superb save to deny Minteh’s curling effort that seemed destined for the top corner, preserving all three points for the home side.

Despite defensive disruption caused by injuries, Arsenal have now claimed three consecutive league wins since a late defeat at Aston Villa. With Declan Rice filling in at right-back and Gabriel returning from the bench after a lengthy absence, Arteta’s side showed resilience during a nervy finish that suggested growing title credentials.

For Brighton, the defeat extended a difficult run that has seen them go five league matches without a win. After a subdued first half, the visitors showed renewed purpose following the interval and applied late pressure, including the introduction of former Arsenal forward Danny Welbeck, but were unable to find an equaliser.

Brighton’s strong early-season form, which once had them challenging near the top five, has now faded, leaving them down in 12th place as they search for renewed momentum.