Pre-Match Focus: Celebrating Milestones and Seizing Momentum
The air at the Emirates was thick with significance. Not only was this a crucial London derby against West Ham United, but the afternoon celebrated two major milestones: Mikel Arteta’s 300th game in charge and Bukayo Saka’s 200th Premier League appearance. After a draining week featuring the comeback against Newcastle and the UCL victory over Olympiacos, Arteta emphasized the need for control and aggression.
Mikel Arteta: "We cannot let the emotion of the last week dictate our performance. We have to be aggressive, we have to dominate the territory, and we must perform with a relentless mindset. Three hundred games is special, but three points are more important. We respect West Ham, but we want the three points."
The Contest: Key Moments & Goals
The first half was a stop-start affair, made tricky by constant stoppages and an injury that sadly saw Martin Ødegaard forced off early on the half-hour mark, replaced by Martin Zubimendi. However, the momentum was seized shortly after.
The opening goal arrived in the 38th minute, delivered by the man who knows this fixture better than most, Declan Rice. Zubimendi slipped an inch-perfect ball to Eberechi Eze, whose fierce shot was pushed away by the goalkeeper. The rebound, however, fell straight to Rice, who controlled the ball and precisely found the net against his former club, making it 1-0.
The decisive second goal came midway through the second half. Jurrien Timber, making an attacking run, was clumsily bundled over in the box, and a penalty was instantly awarded. Bukayo Saka, marking his 200th appearance, stepped up to the spot and calmly sent Alphonse Areola the wrong way in the 67th minute. The penalty was historic, marking Saka’s 100th Premier League goal involvement (55 goals, 45 assists).
With a two-goal cushion, Arsenal managed the remainder of the game professionally, ensuring David Raya kept a comfortable clean sheet, and cruising to a vital 2-0 victory.
Post-Match Reaction and Man of the Match
Arteta reflected on the significant landmarks achieved while praising the team's ability to adapt after losing their captain.
Mikel Arteta: "To get a result like this in such a crucial London derby, with the context of the week and losing our captain early, shows the character of this team. The performance was mature, especially defensively. This result is a great way to mark the milestones today, but the team's desire is what matters most."
Bukayo Saka: "Hitting 100 goal involvements on my 200th appearance is incredible. I'm just so appreciative of the staff, my teammates, and the fans. It was important to get the win today—it's the perfect feeling to go top before the break."
The Man of the Match award goes to Declan Rice. His tireless performance in midfield controlled the tempo, and his opening goal against his former club was the critical moment that broke West Ham's resilience and set the Gunners on the path to victory.
The win sends Arsenal into the international break sitting top of the Premier League table. We return to action against Fulham on Saturday, October 18.
Image Credits https://www.arsenal.com/news/gallery-34-photos-our-victory-over-west-ham