Arsenal’s Gabriel Jesus once again proved to be Crystal Palace’s nemesis, delivering a brace in a dominant 5-1 victory at Selhurst Park on Saturday.
The win brought Arsenal within three points of Premier League leaders Liverpool.
Fresh off a hat trick in Arsenal’s 3-2 League Cup quarterfinal win over Palace on Wednesday, Jesus extended his scoring streak against the Eagles.
This was a remarkable turnaround for the Brazilian, who had only netted once in his previous 33 games for Mikel Arteta’s side.
Jesus struck twice in the opening 15 minutes and nearly secured another hat trick before halftime, only for his header to strike the post.
Kai Havertz was quick to capitalize, tapping in the rebound to extend Arsenal’s lead to 3-1 after Ismaïla Sarr had equalized for the hosts in a lively opening period.
Jesus continued to torment Palace, playing a key role as Gabriel Martinelli added a fourth goal around the hour mark. Declan Rice then rounded off the emphatic win with his first Premier League goal of the season.
The result propelled Arsenal back into third place with 33 points from 17 matches, overtaking Nottingham Forest.
Liverpool lead the table with 36 points from 15 games, while Chelsea sit second on 34 points from 16. Crystal Palace remain in 15th place.