Arsenal missed a golden opportunity to widen their lead at the top of the Premier League, settling for a 1-1 draw against a resilient Brentford side.
Despite a breakthrough from Noni Madueke, the North Londoners were pegged back by Lewis Keane-Potter, leaving Mikel Arteta’s men just four points ahead of a surging Manchester City.
The first half was a sluggish affair, with the visitors struggling to find their rhythm. However, the game sparked to life after the interval when Madueke headed home a Piero Hincapie cross.
The lead was short-lived, as Brentford utilized their trademark set-piece prowess to level the scores via a Sepp van den Berg flick-on. The result serves as a wake-up call for the Gunners as the title race intensifies.
Arsenal Player Ratings
David Raya – 7
The goalkeeper was sharp throughout, producing a world-class reflex save to deny Igor Thiago in the first period. While he had a moment of madness by gifting the ball to the opposition early on, he recovered well and could do little to prevent the equalizer.
Jurrien Timber – 6
The full-back showed plenty of ambition, constantly darting into advanced positions. Unfortunately, his teammates failed to pick out his runs often enough, and he faced a relentless afternoon defending against the pace of Dango Ouattara.
Cristhian Mosquera – 7
Thrown into the deep end to cover for the absent William Saliba, the youngster looked remarkably composed. He registered several crucial blocks and showed great recovery speed to halt Thiago late in the game after a rare miscalculation.
Gabriel – 6
A typically physical performance from the Brazilian, who made a goal-saving intervention in the 68th minute. However, he was uncharacteristically quiet in the opposing box during set-pieces and walked a tightrope after picking up an early booking.
Piero Hincapie – 7
Operating as an inverted left-back, he provided the game’s highlight for Arsenal with a beautifully weighted cross for the opening goal. His defensive positioning continues to improve as he cements himself in Arteta’s preferred XI.
Martin Zubimendi – 6
The Spaniard controlled the tempo well in patches, but he struggled when Brentford turned up the intensity. The midfield appeared slightly too porous during transitions, allowing the Bees to bypass the center of the park with ease.
Declan Rice – 6
It was a more subdued outing for the midfield general. While he maintained his usual work rate and made a vital late interception, he wasn’t able to dominate the game or dictate play as he usually does under the Gtech lights.
Eberechi Eze – 4
A disappointing evening for the summer signing. He looked like a passenger for much of the first half, struggling to get on the ball or create any meaningful openings before being replaced at the break.
Noni Madueke – 8
Clearly the standout performer for the Gunners. Taking advantage of Bukayo Saka’s initial absence, he proved he is more than just a dribbler by showing great aerial desire to beat Rico Henry and head his side into the lead.
Viktor Gyokeres – 5
The Swedish striker had a frustrating night at the office. Starved of service, he spent most of the game chasing shadows and failing to link up effectively with the wingers, leaving fans wondering when he will rediscover his clinical edge.
Leandro Trossard – 7
The Belgian was a constant outlet on the left wing. His chemistry with Rice and Hincapie was the primary source of Arsenal’s threat, and he was instrumental in the buildup play that eventually led to the breakthrough.
Substitutes
Martin Odegaard – 6
Introduced at halftime, the captain immediately added a sense of urgency and vision. However, a knock to the knee seemed to hamper his mobility, and his influence faded as the match reached its climax.
Bukayo Saka – 5
Brought on to find a winner, the talismanic winger looked uncharacteristically rusty. A heavy touch spoiled his best opportunity, suggesting he may still be shaking off the effects of his recent fitness issues.
Riccardo Calafiori – 5
The Italian nearly became the hero in stoppage time. He forced a smart save from Kelleher but will likely be disappointed he didn’t use his stronger left foot to bury the chance.
Gabriel Martinelli – N/A
A late introduction who had a big chance to win it for Arsenal but saw his shot saved by Kelleher.