Arsenal secured a comeback 2-1 win over Chelsea in a London derby on Saturday, maintaining their perfect start to the Premier League season. Captain Martin Odegaard scored the decisive goal in the second half after Kai Havertz had equalised against his former club, as reported by The National.
How did Arsenal turn the game around?
Chelsea stunned the Emirates Stadium by scoring after just 77 seconds. Morgan Rogers reacted quickest to a Reece James free-kick to volley past David Raya. It was the first goal Arsenal had conceded this campaign. The Gunners responded with sustained pressure. Havertz leveled the scores in the 25th minute, beating goalkeeper Emi Martinez at his near post. The pressure told again five minutes after the restart. Havertz cleverly let the ball run, creating space for Odegaard to finish. The captain's second league goal of the season sealed the three points.
What did the managers and players say?
Mikel Arteta's side showed the resilience that delivered last season's title. "It was a big game, massive game, tough opponent and we got there in the end, so brilliant," Odegaard told Sky Sports. "Our mentality is to keep fighting. We have shown that many times." Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso was left frustrated by the narrow defeat. "It hurts," he said. "It has been a very intense game with different moments. It was a tight game, with details, but you are never happy if you lose."
Where does this leave Arsenal in the table?
The victory means Arsenal are one of only two teams with a 100% record after three matches, alongside Manchester City. It extends their Premier League winning run to eight games, stretching back into the previous campaign. This early test against a Chelsea side that had also won its opening two games was passed. Fans can track the evolving standings as the season progresses. The Gunners' next challenge is a home match against Aston Villa on September 14th.
What is the current state of the Arsenal squad?
The team's strong start is built on a blend of experience and youth. Key players like Bukayo Saka and William Saliba are central to Arteta's plans. The full squad list shows depth in attacking areas, with Leandro Trossard and Gabriel Jesus providing options. In midfield, Declan Rice continues to be a dominant presence, allowing creative players like Odegaard to influence games higher up the pitch. The club's defensive record before this game was perfect, a foundation they will aim to restore.
Arsenal's next fixture is against Aston Villa at the Emirates Stadium on September 14th, as confirmed on the official fixtures schedule.
