Arsenal Claims Victory Over Brentford With Merinos Key Contribution

Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal defeated Brentford 2-0 at the Emirates Stadium on Wednesday. The win extends their unbeaten run to 18 games across all competitions. It also restores their lead at the top of the Premier League table to five points over champions Manchester City.

The victory was a testament to squad depth and control. According to match data from Fotmob, the Gunners dominated possession and limited the Bees to minimal chances. This performance underscores their growing authority in the Premier League title race.

Merino Shines Again as Gunners Grind Out Vital Win

Mikel Merino opened the scoring in the 11th minute. The Spaniard headed home from close range after clever work from Ben White and Noni Madueke. It was his second goal in as many games while filling in for the rested Viktor Gyökeres.

David Raya was called into action just once, tipping a Kevin Schade header onto the bar. Arsenal controlled the tempo for long periods without creating a flurry of chances. The second goal finally arrived in the 88th minute through substitute Bukayo Saka.

Saka’s shot took a kind deflection off Brentford keeper Caoimhín Kelleher before rolling in. The result was never truly in doubt, though injuries to Cristhian Mosquera and Declan Rice were a concern. Manager Mikel Arteta will hope those are not serious with a crucial run-in ahead.

Title Race Momentum Firmly with North London Leaders

This result piles pressure on rivals Manchester City and Liverpool. Arsenal now sit five points clear with nine games remaining. The psychological boost of maintaining such a gap cannot be understated in a tight contest.

The team’s defensive solidity has been the foundation of this charge. They have kept clean sheets in their last three league matches. This resilience, combined with timely goals, is a classic hallmark of potential champions.

For Brentford, the defeat leaves them in a mid-table position. They offered sporadic threat but lacked the cutting edge without star striker Igor Thiago from the start. Their focus now shifts to finishing the season strongly.

Arsenal’s commanding position in the Premier League is now a statement of intent. They have shown the consistency and grit required to win the title. The final stretch of the season promises high drama.

A quick knowledge drop for you

Who scored for Arsenal against Brentford?

Mikel Merino opened the scoring with a first-half header. Bukayo Saka sealed the 2-0 win with a late goal in the 88th minute of the match.

What is Arsenal’s position in the Premier League now?

Arsenal are first in the Premier League table. Their win extended their lead to five points over Manchester City in second place.

How long is Arsenal’s current unbeaten run?

The team is now 18 games unbeaten across all competitions. Their last defeat was against Liverpool back in August of last year.

Did Arsenal suffer any injuries during the match?

Yes, defender Cristhian Mosquera was substituted in the first half with an injury. Star midfielder Declan Rice also hobbled off late in the game, causing concern.

What was the key match statistic?

Arsenal dominated with 67% possession and limited Brentford to just one shot on target. Their expected goals (xG) tally of 1.72 also highlighted their control of the game.