Arsenal returned from the international break in style, securing a crucial 2-1 win over Fulham on Tuesday (30) at the Emirates Stadium in a match valid for the 30th round of the 2024/25 Premier League. On a night filled with intensity and emotion, Bukayo Saka’s triumphant return stole the spotlight, helping the Gunners solidify their position in second place, while Fulham endured another painful defeat in a difficult week.
A First Half of Patience and Precision
The match began with both teams displaying solid defensive structures, making it difficult for either side to break through. For over 30 minutes, defenders dominated the action, blocking attacking plays. However, a moment of brilliance down the right flank changed the course of the game. After a well-worked play between Timber and Nwaneri, the ball fell to Merino, who struck a shot that deflected off Cuenca and found the back of the net in the 37th minute. The Spanish midfielder, deployed as a makeshift striker, netted his sixth goal of the season, justifying Mikel Arteta’s tactical decision.
Saka Returns, and Arsenal Doubles Their Lead
With a narrow lead, Arsenal came out in the second half looking to seal the victory. Early on, both goalkeepers were called into action: Leno made crucial saves from Odegaard (51’) and Timber (55’), while Raya denied a dangerous effort from Raúl Jiménez (55’).
Then, in the 66th minute, Emirates Stadium erupted as Bukayo Saka stepped onto the pitch, marking his long-awaited return after being sidelined for over three months due to injury and surgery. It didn’t take long for the young star to make his presence felt.
In the 73rd minute, a lightning-fast counterattack caught Fulham off guard. Martinelli surged down the left flank, delivered a pinpoint cross to Merino, who flicked the ball to Saka, and the England international calmly slotted it home at the far post. It was Arsenal’s second goal and Saka’s 10th of the season, a perfect way to celebrate his comeback.
Fulham Fights Back, But Arsenal Holds On
Despite being two goals down, Fulham refused to give up and pushed forward in search of a lifeline. After several attempts from Sessegnon and Muniz, the Brazilian striker finally broke through in stoppage time. In the 94th minute, Muniz connected with a Sessegnon assist and fired the ball past Raya to pull one back for the visitors. However, it was too late for a dramatic comeback.
With this victory, Arsenal extends their lead over third-placed Nottingham Forest to four points, staying firmly in the title race. Meanwhile, Fulham suffers their second consecutive defeat since club football resumed, remaining in eighth place.
