Brighton 3-0 Arsenal: Gunners suffer first season defeat
Brighton produced a statement performance at the Amex Stadium as they handed Arsenal their first defeat of the season with a comfortable 3-0 win.
The Seagulls came into the match full of confidence after impressive wins over Coventry City and Manchester United, and they quickly put Arsenal under pressure with an aggressive approach.
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Pascal Gross opened the scoring in the 31st minute, cutting inside before seeing his effort from the edge of the box take a deflection off the post and beat David Raya.
Brighton punish Arsenal before the break
Arsenal, who had won their opening nine league matches and all seven games in all competitions this season, struggled to find their usual rhythm.
Mikel Arteta’s side had a chance to level shortly before half-time when Bukayo Saka found himself in space inside the area following Martin Odegaard’s deflected effort, but the winger was unable to finish.
Brighton immediately punished the miss. Charalampos Kostoulas was allowed time on the edge of the box and calmly turned before firing past Raya to give the hosts a two-goal advantage.
Arteta made no changes at the interval, but Arsenal’s response failed to materialise.
Twelve minutes into the second half, Brighton extended their lead when Chema Andres rose to head in Gross’ corner, completing a remarkable 11-goal haul for the Seagulls across their previous three matches.
Gunners unable to find a way back
Brighton continued to threaten from set pieces, with Pascal Struijk coming close to adding a fourth when he headed wide from another corner.
Arsenal’s best late opportunity fell to Kai Havertz, but the forward shot straight at Bart Verbruggen after breaking through on goal.
Raya was also called into action at the other end, denying Matt O’Riley as Brighton comfortably saw out the victory.
The result ended Arsenal’s perfect start and left them second in the table on goal difference, having played one more match than Manchester City.
Brighton, meanwhile, climbed into third place and moved to within two points of the leaders after another impressive performance.