Bukayo Saka scored the decisive goal as Premier League champions Arsenal secured a 1-0 victory over Aston Villa on Monday night.
The England winger finished from close range after Riccardo Calafiori’s cutback, giving Arsenal a second consecutive league victory and leaving Villa without a point from their opening two matches.
The result moved Mikel Arteta’s side onto six points, while Villa suffered another defeat after losing their opening fixture.
Saka settles tight contest
The game produced few clear opportunities, with Saka’s goal eventually separating the sides.
Villa came closest to breaking the deadlock before half-time when Emiliano Buendia’s effort struck the crossbar. The goal would also have been subject to a possible review after a foul in the build-up.
Arsenal thought they had been handed an opportunity to take the lead when Saka went down following a challenge from Ian Maatsen inside the penalty area.
However, a VAR review determined that the contact occurred outside the box. The penalty was overturned and Arsenal were awarded a free-kick instead.
Saka then proved decisive after the break, reacting quickest to Calafiori’s delivery to put the visitors ahead.
Arsenal hold on for second win
Villa struggled to produce a response after falling behind, while Arsenal looked to protect their advantage.
Kai Havertz forced a save from Villa goalkeeper Zion Suzuki as the visitors searched for a second goal to put the result beyond doubt.
Arteta also introduced Ezri Konsa for his second-half debut against his former club, with the defender receiving a positive reception from the home supporters.
Arsenal ultimately held on to claim all three points and maintain their perfect start to the league campaign.
