Arsenal took second place in the championship after their 2-1 victory at low-ranked Nottingham Forest on Tuesday at the opening of the 22nd day, which brings the Gunners to within two points of leader Liverpool, host of Chelsea on Wednesday. The Londoners are three steps ahead of Manchester City (3rd, 43 points), the three-time reigning champion, who hosts Burnley on Wednesday and has a late match to play, on February 20 against Brentford.
At the City Ground, Arsenal outrageously dominated the proceedings (more than 75% possession), without however being dangerous during the first period, which ended with only one shot on target. The Gunners became more precise and threatening after returning from the locker room, with an attempt by Bukayo Saka repelled by Matt Turner (53rd) then a shot repelled by the post (57th). The attackers’ perseverance was rewarded shortly afterwards.
Jesus took advantage of a quick touch from Oleksandr Zinchenko to enter the area and score from a tight angle, with the involuntary complicity of the goalkeeper who deflected the leather into his cage (65th, 1-0). The Brazilian then distinguished himself with an assist for Saka, scorer with a powerful uncrossed shot (72nd, 2-0).
Taiwo Awoniyi, returning from injury, reduced the gap at the end of the match after showing his power in front of William Saliba (89th, 2-1), then forcing David Raya to make a save in added time (90th 3). Arsenal have two wins from two league matches in 2024 before hosting Liverpool on Sunday.