Arsenal took all three points in their first game of 2025 as they took apart Brentford in yet another victorious London derby. With several key players missing or not fully fit, it was an impressive showing of what even a limited Arsenal side can do against a very challenging opponent away from home.
Brentford took the lead in the game through Bryan Mbeumo in what was the first chance at goal for the home side – striking low past David Raya at his near post. Gabriel Jesus however would cancel this out with a diving header from a saved effort from range.
Arsenal would grab the game early in the second half as Mikel Merino latched onto a ball bouncing in the box from a corner before Gabriel Martinelli slammed in the third for the title chasers.
David Raya – Beaten at his near-post, which usually incurs criticism. But he was unsighted, and there was little he could do with a good shot from Mbeumo. However he would later let a shot slip, having to dive back at the last moment to claw the ball away from crossing the line.
The second half though saw some of the best long-range distribution I’ve seen. With long kicks or quarterback-like throws through to Gabriel Martinelli, it was quite something. 6
