Arsenal made a resounding comeback from injury woe to return to winning ways against outclassed Leeds, further solidifying their grip on the Premier League title. While two points from three games may not be enough to raise major alarm bells at Arsenal's camp, this win will undoubtedly have been music to the ears of manager Mikel Arteta and his coaching staff.
The visitors' spirited display was tempered by the absence of Bukayo Saka, who limped off before kick-off with a hip issue, but they still produced a performance that would put most teams to shame. However, it was Noni Madueke who stole the show, showcasing glimpses of class and skill that had been lacking in his previous outings.
Madueke's introduction seemed to galvanize Arsenal's attack, and he nearly paid off with a sumptuous cross that allowed MartΓn Zubimendi to head Leeds into the lead. The visitors' struggles to cope with Madueke's pace and delivery ultimately proved decisive, as they were punished by their own defense on two occasions.
Karl Darlow, in particular, was at fault for both of Arsenal's goals, his flapping at a corner from Madueke proving costly on both occasions. His uncharacteristic display will leave Daniel Farke's Leeds side wondering what might have been if they had handled the opposition better.
In contrast, Arsenal's response to being two down was nothing short of convincing. Gabriel Jesus curled home an outstanding effort just before the end, securing a convincing 4-1 victory that left Leeds reeling.
The win has served as a timely confidence booster for Arteta's team, and they now sit seven points clear at the top of the Premier League table. While there is still work to be done, this result will have given them the platform to push on and secure their first title in years.
The visitors' spirited display was tempered by the absence of Bukayo Saka, who limped off before kick-off with a hip issue, but they still produced a performance that would put most teams to shame. However, it was Noni Madueke who stole the show, showcasing glimpses of class and skill that had been lacking in his previous outings.
Madueke's introduction seemed to galvanize Arsenal's attack, and he nearly paid off with a sumptuous cross that allowed MartΓn Zubimendi to head Leeds into the lead. The visitors' struggles to cope with Madueke's pace and delivery ultimately proved decisive, as they were punished by their own defense on two occasions.
Karl Darlow, in particular, was at fault for both of Arsenal's goals, his flapping at a corner from Madueke proving costly on both occasions. His uncharacteristic display will leave Daniel Farke's Leeds side wondering what might have been if they had handled the opposition better.
In contrast, Arsenal's response to being two down was nothing short of convincing. Gabriel Jesus curled home an outstanding effort just before the end, securing a convincing 4-1 victory that left Leeds reeling.
The win has served as a timely confidence booster for Arteta's team, and they now sit seven points clear at the top of the Premier League table. While there is still work to be done, this result will have given them the platform to push on and secure their first title in years.