Arsenal started 2025 in style, coming from behind to beat Brentford 3-1 at the Gtech Community Stadium.
Brentford stunned Arsenal early in the first half. Despite Arsenal dominating possession with over 80% of the ball in the opening minutes, it was the hosts who broke the deadlock.
In the 13th minute, Mikkel Damsgaard intercepted Martin Odegaard’s pass and launched the counterattack, sending a perfect ball to Bryan Mbeumo.
The Brentford forward cut expertly inside, avoiding Riccardo Calafiori, and finished past former team-mate David Raya at the near post.
Arsenal, shaken but undaunted, responded. Brentford almost doubled their lead in the 28th minute when Keane Lewis-Potter’s shot went through Raya’s gloves but the keeper recovered to keep the ball off the line.
Minutes later, Gabriel Jesus took advantage of a defensive error to level the score.
Thomas Partey’s shot was saved by Brentford goalkeeper Mark Flecken, but Jesus was perfectly placed to tap home the rebound.
Another great performance from the team ❤️ pic.twitter.com/DBEoSEQe05
— Arsenal (@Arsenal) January 1, 2025
The teams entered halftime tied at 1-1. Arsenal controlled possession and created more chances, but Bradford’s counter-attacking threat kept them in the contest.
In the 50th minute, Mikel Merino converted a missed set piece into a goal.
Ethan Nuaneri’s corner caused chaos in the box, with Flecken spilling the ball under pressure.
After Jesus’ effort was blocked, Merino reacted quicker and slotted the ball into the net, giving Arsenal a 2-1 lead.
Just three minutes later, Arsenal extended their advantage further. Nwaneri was once again instrumental, bringing in a cross that Brentford’s Nathan Collins could only partially clear.
Gabriel Martinelli latched onto the loose ball, taking a touch before unleashing a powerful strike past Flekken to make it 3-1.
Gabigoal 🇧🇷 pic.twitter.com/HAc8BC94o6
— Arsenal (@Arsenal) January 1, 2025
After that, Brentford, despite their best efforts, struggled to create clear-cut chances against a determined Arsenal line.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta made several changes to manage the game in the closing stages. Odegaard, Nwaneri and Merino were replaced by experienced leaders such as Jorginho, Leandro Trossard and Declan Rice, ensuring Arsenal remained in control.
Brentford’s best chance to grab a goal came in stoppage time. Mathias Jensen produced a dangerous cross into the box, but despite a diving effort, it was not met and escaped harmlessly for a goal.
Arsenal’s victory sees them secure their 11th league win of the season and extend their unbeaten run in London derbies to an incredible 11 games. They remain firmly in the title race, putting pressure on leaders Liverpool.
Brentford, meanwhile, will reflect on missed chances and defensive errors but can take solace in their strong overall home form this season.
