Arsenal close gap on Liverpool with impressive win at Brentford | OneFootball

Arsenal’s 3-1 comeback victory against Brentford at the Gtech Community Stadium could well be their defining performance of the season.

With Bukayo Saka, Declan Rice and Kai Havertz unavailable and a sickness bug reportedly impacting the squad, this was a test of their resilience against one of the Premier League’s strongest home sides.

Brentford, unbeaten in eight home games this season, looked set to provide a stern challenge. However, Arsenal showed why they are genuine title contenders.

The Bees struck first in typical fashion, capitalising on a rare mistake by Martin Odegaard. Bryan Mbeumo punished his slack pass with a low shot past David Raya, giving the hosts the lead after just 13 minutes.

It was Brentford’s direct style at its best, and they almost doubled their lead moments later when Keane Lewis-Potter’s shot slipped through Raya’s grasp before he clawed it back off the line.

Arsenal’s response was swift and ruthless. Within a minute, Gabriel Jesus levelled the score, reacting quickest to a rebound in the box after Brentford failed to clear their lines.

It was the kind of predatory instinct the Brazilian has been criticised for lacking, but his performance here silenced those doubts.

The Gunners took control early in the second half. Mikel Merino capitalised on a fumbled clearance from a corner to put Arsenal ahead.

Gabriel Martinelli added a third a few minutes later with a composed finish from Ethan Nwaneri’s deflected cross.

The 17-year-old’s full Premier League debut was a highlight, showing maturity beyond his years and contributing to both second-half goals.

Mikel Arteta’s side demonstrated resilience and adaptability. Without Saka’s creativity and flair, they relied on collective effort and high-intensity pressing.

This wasn’t the free-flowing football Arsenal fans adored under Arsene Wenger, but it was effective, pragmatic and indicative of a team serious about challenging Liverpool for the title.

The performance highlighted the importance of squad depth. Jesus, Martinelli and Nwaneri all stepped up in Saka’s absence, while the defence held firm despite early wobbles.

Arsenal may not always dazzle, but their ability to grind out results against tough opponents is the hallmark of potential champions.

The Gunners have the grit, depth and determination to go toe-to-toe with Liverpool. This result is how title-winning campaigns are built.