Brighton Shock Arsenal With 3-0 Win As Gunners Suffer First Defeat

Arsenal suffered their first defeat of the season after Brighton produced a strong performance to beat the defending champions 3-0 at the Amex Stadium.

Brighton started the game with confidence after recent wins over Coventry City and Manchester United, and they quickly put Arsenal under pressure.

The hosts took the lead in the 31st minute when Pascal Gross fired a shot from the edge of the box. The ball hit the post before going into the net.

Arsenal struggled to find their usual rhythm and looked uncomfortable whenever they had possession.

The Gunners had a big chance to equalise just before half-time. Bukayo Saka found himself in a good position after Martin Odegaard’s effort was deflected into his path, but he could not convert the chance.

Brighton punished Arsenal almost immediately.

Charalampos Kostoulas was given space outside the box and took advantage, turning before firing past David Raya to make it 2-0.

Mikel Arteta made no changes at the break as he looked for a reaction from his players, but Brighton remained in control.

Just 12 minutes into the second half, Chema Andres headed in Brighton’s third goal from another Gross corner.

The result means Brighton scored 11 goals in just one week, following their five-goal victory over Coventry and their 3-2 comeback win against Manchester United in the Carabao Cup.

Brighton came close to adding a fourth when Pascal Struijk headed wide from another corner.

Arsenal also had opportunities to reduce the deficit, with Kai Havertz denied by goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen after breaking through on goal.

Matt O’Riley also came close for Brighton, but David Raya made a save to prevent a fourth goal.

The defeat ended Arsenal’s strong run and left them second in the table on goal difference, having played one more game than Manchester City.

Brighton’s victory moved them up to third, just two points behind the leaders.