Gabriel Jesus

Arsenal Narrowly Edges Past Nottingham Forest, Closing In on Liverpool


January 31, 2024 2:21 pm

Arsenal has fortified its standing in the Premier League with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Nottingham Forest at the City Ground on Tuesday. This win propels Mikel Arteta’s squad to within just two points of league leaders Liverpool, marking a significant leap over Manchester City in the race for the title.

Gabriel Jesus played a pivotal role in Arsenal’s triumph, scoring the opening goal and setting up Bukayo Saka for the second. Despite dominating possession throughout the match, Arsenal struggled to capitalize on their opportunities until 

Jesus’ breakthrough in the 65th minute. The goal, a result of Forest’s lax approach to a throw-in, saw Jesus firing a shot through goalkeeper Matt Turner’s legs from a tight angle.

In his post-match remarks to TNT Sports, Jesus highlighted the team’s persistence and control over the game, particularly in the second half, which allowed them to secure a more commanding presence. Follow your favourite Premier League team with attractive football betting odds from Nextbet. 

The Gunners’ lead was further solidified in the 72nd minute when Forest’s Gonzalo Montiel’s mistake near the halfway line led to a quick counterattack. Jesus played a crucial pass to Saka, who managed to score despite Turner getting a hand on the ball.

Nottingham Forest, currently positioned 16th in the league, managed to inject some late drama into the match. Substitute Taiwo Awoniyi scored in the 89th minute, igniting hopes among the home crowd. However, Arsenal’s goalkeeper David Raya made a crucial save in the final moments, ensuring Arsenal walked away with all three points.

The match, witnessed by Arsenal legend Robert Pires, saw the Gunners attempting 19 shots compared to Forest’s nine, with both teams having three shots on target.

This victory is a significant boost for Arsenal, who had recently experienced a three-game winless streak. Climbing over Manchester City to secure the second spot with 46 points after 22 games, Arsenal is now hot on the heels of Liverpool, who lead with 48 points and a game in hand.

Liverpool’s upcoming match against Chelsea at Anfield adds another layer of intrigue to the title race. Meanwhile, Forest’s position just two points above the relegation zone indicates a tough battle ahead for them in the league. Get the latest updates from the Premier League only on Nextbet Sports