EPL: Saka shines as Arsenal break historic record with win at Nottingham Forest

Arsenal secured a 2-1 win away at Nottingham Forest, marking their first league win at the City Ground since 1999.

It was also the first time they are winning their opening two matches of a calendar year since 2014. The Gunners’ victory saw them close the gap on league leaders Liverpool to just two points.

Despite dominating possession in the first half with 81%, Arsenal struggled to break through Forest’s defense.

However, Gabriel Jesus broke the deadlock in the 65th minute, scoring from a tight angle. Bukayo Saka then doubled Arsenal’s lead with a clinical finish, capping off a swift counter-attack.

Saka’s goal sealed the win for the visitors, and while bringing his tally to ten goals and 13 assists since the start of the 2023/24 campaign.

He has now joined the ranks of Aston Villa’s Ollie Watkins and Liverpool’s Darwin Nunez in achieving the remarkable goal record this season.

While Forest managed to pull one back through Taiwo Awoniyi late in the game, Arsenal held on for the win.

The victory pushed Arsenal to second place in the standings, moving ahead of Manchester City who although, have two outstandings.

On the other hand, Forest’s position in the table has become precarious, as they now sit just two points above the relegation zone.