It was Arsenal who eventually ran away with all three points in an initially difficult game in Brighton. But a key event could have changed things for Martin Ødegaard and co.
Because after half an hour played, the away team would have a golden opportunity to score 1-0, when Gabriel Jesus earned a penalty for Arsenal. He was dropped by Tariq Lamptey and it was a somewhat debatable decision.
– I think Lamptey hit the ball a bit, but he takes a lot from the man. But this one is difficult, commented Sky Sport expert Alan Smith.
He was supported by his Sky Sports colleague David Richardson.
– Brighton probably feel that Lamptey was unlucky to let in after he touched the ball first, said Richardson.
Safe from the penalty spot
Bukayo Saka took the penalty, and was safe from the penalty spot. The Englishman scored his 14th goal of the season with it.
The penalty was awarded five minutes after Brighton also called for a penalty when Lamptey went to the ground. That time, the referee chose to wave play on, to major protests from the Brighton fans and some players.
In the second half, Arsenal had pretty good control, and the title contenders were to increase their lead after magnificent play. It was Ødegaard who sent a perfect stick to Jorginho. The Italian sent the ball along the ground to Kai Havertz in front of goal, who put the ball easily into the net.
Thus, much of the work was done, and The Gunners were on their way to another impressive and important victory.
Countered winning goal
With a Brighton that bet everything offensively, there was room for a counterattack for Arsenal. Leandro Trossard was played well through, and had a whole half of the pitch between himself and the goalkeeper. He chipped the ball beautifully into the goal.
It’s insanely even at the top of the Premier League, and with today’s victory, Mikel Arteta’s men lead the league for the time being. But Liverpool have a game to play, and they face Manchester United on Sunday afternoon. It could also be a key match in the title race.
Manchester City won their match against Crystal Palace earlier in the day. There it finally ended 4-2 for Pep Guardiola’s City, after being 0-1 down early on.
Brighton, on the other hand, is fighting for a new place in a European tournament. The Champions League is practically impossible, but both the Europa League and the Conference League can go with a good end to the season for Roberto De Zerbi’s men.
Brighton host Burnley in the next round, while Arsenal face Aston Villa in the next league match. Before that time, Ødegaard’s team will play in the championship match against Bayern Muchen.