Arsenal triumph 2-1 over Nottingham Forest: Bukayo Saka’s incredible goal secures victory despite tense finale

Written by Matt Verri
Published on Saturday, August 12, 2023

In a thrilling start to their Premier League season, Arsenal overcame a late scare to secure a 2-1 victory against Nottingham Forest.

With high expectations following their title bid last season and a successful summer recruitment, Arsenal seemed to be cruising to victory for most of the match. Eddie Nketiah opened the scoring, capitalizing on Gabriel Martinelli’s excellent assist. Bukayo Saka then extended the lead with a stunning strike just before halftime.

However, Nottingham Forest’s Taiwo Awoniyi ensured a tense finish by netting a goal from a counter-attack. Despite some nervy moments, Arsenal managed to hold on for the win.

Gabriel’s streak of 73 consecutive league starts for Arsenal came to an end as he was benched, allowing Thomas Partey to play at right-back. Nketiah took the lead upfront. Meanwhile, Matt Turner, who recently transferred from Arsenal, started for Forest.

Kick-off was delayed in north London due to ticketing issues, causing some fans to be stuck outside. Nevertheless, most managed to take their seats just in time to witness Brennan Johnson missing a golden opportunity to score. After receiving a headed pass from Willy Boly, Johnson’s finish was wayward, failing to beat Arsenal’s goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale.

Despite this miss, Arsenal took the lead thanks to Martinelli’s superb dribbling on the wing, setting up Nketiah for the goal, aided by a deflection.

Displaying their prowess, the Gunners doubled their advantage with a magnificent goal from Saka. Cutting inside onto his left foot from 25 yards out, Saka elegantly curled the ball into the top corner.

Arsenal’s comfortable start to the season was disrupted when Timber, who had already picked up a knock, was forced off the pitch just after halftime.

The second half was more challenging for the hosts, as they struggled to find the third goal that would secure the match. Their closest opportunity came from Declan Rice, whose low strike was brilliantly saved by Turner’s fingertips, hitting the post.

Nottingham Forest set up an intense finale by scoring from an Arsenal corner. After clearing the ball, Anthony Elana initiated a counter-attack down the left wing, delivering a low cross for Awoniyi to finish at the near post. This injected nerves into the atmosphere at the Emirates Stadium, but Arsenal managed to hold firm and secure the victory.