Arteta’s men move back to second place
Arsenal started 2025 in style, coming from behind to beat Brentford 3-1 at the Gtech Community Stadium.
Brentford stunned Arsenal early in the first half. Although Arsenal dominated possession with over 80% 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 counterattack by passing the ball perfectly to Bryan Mbeumo.
The Brentford striker skilfully moved inside, evaded Riccardo Calafiori and shot past his former team-mate David Raya at the near post.
Arsenal reacted shocked but undeterred. Brentford almost doubled their lead in the 28th minute when Keane Lewis-Potter’s shot slipped through Raya’s gloves, but the goalkeeper recovered and prevented the ball from crossing the line.
A few moments later, Gabriel Jesus took advantage of a defensive error to equalize.
Thomas Partey’s shot was parried by Brentford goalkeeper Mark Flekken, but Jesus was perfectly positioned to place the rebound.
Another great team performance ❤️ pic.twitter.com/DBEoSEQe05
– Arsenal (@Arsenal) January 1, 2025
The teams went into halftime with a score of 1-1. Arsenal had controlled possession and created more opportunities, but Brentford’s counter-attack threat kept them in the contest.
In the 50th minute, Mikel Merino turned a difficult set piece into a goal.
Ethan Nwaneri’s corner caused chaos in the penalty area as Flekken gave the ball away under pressure.
After Jesus’ shot was blocked, Merino reacted quickest and fired the ball into the net, giving Arsenal a 2-1 lead.
Just three minutes later, Arsenal further extended their lead. Nwaneri again played a crucial role, delivering a cross that Brentford’s Nathan Collins could only partially clear.
Gabriel Martinelli picked up the loose ball, grabbed a touch before firing a powerful shot past Flekken to make it 3-1.
Gabigoal 🇧🇷 pic.twitter.com/HAc8BC94o6
– Arsenal (@Arsenal) January 1, 2025
Afterwards, despite their valiant efforts, Brentford struggled to create clear-cut chances against the resolute Arsenal backline.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta made several changes to control the game in the final stages. Odegaard, Nwaneri and Merino were replaced by experienced heads such as Jorginho, Leandro Trossard and Declan Rice to ensure Arsenal remained in control.
Brentford’s best chance to score again came in stoppage time. Mathias Jensen hit a dangerous cross into the penalty area, but despite a diving attempt it was missed and drifted harmlessly towards the goal kick.
Arsenal’s win 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 and are putting pressure on league leaders Liverpool.
Brentford, meanwhile, will reflect on missed opportunities and defensive errors but can take solace in their overall strong home form this season.
