Follow Us on Google
Noni Madueke came off the bench to score a late winner as Arsenal edged Nottingham Forest 1-0 away on Sunday in matchday seven of the English Premier League, securing three points despite struggling to create chances.
Arsenal dominated possession in the first half but failed to break down Forest’s disciplined defense, with neither side registering a shot on target before the break.
The hosts threatened in the 19th minute through Dan Ndoye, before Murillo headed narrowly wide from a corner.
Kai Havertz missed an opportunity for the visitors in the 37th minute, heading Declan Rice’s free-kick over the crossbar.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta introduced Madueke at halftime in place of Eberechi Eze, but the Gunners continued to struggle against Forest, who started the second half more brightly.
Other News
Declan Rice wasted Arsenal’s clearest opportunity in the 72nd minute, firing over the bar from inside the penalty area after being picked out by Jurrien Timber.
The visitors increased the pressure in the closing stages, eventually breaking the deadlock in the 80th minute when Madueke dribbled past Daniel Munoz before his right-footed shot deflected off Jair Cunha and beat goalkeeper Matz Sels.
Forest nearly equalized in stoppage time, with Murillo firing narrowly over the crossbar before Ezri Konsa made a crucial last-ditch tackle to block Liam Delap’s shot in a one-on-one situation with goalkeeper David Raya.
Madueke’s winner proved to be Arsenal’s only shot on target as the defending champions held on for a hard-fought victory.
The result lifted Arsenal to second place with 18 points, three behind leaders Manchester City, while Forest remained in the relegation zone in 18th place with five points.
