Bukayo Saka played a key role in inspiring Arsenal’s 3-1 comeback victory over Southampton at the Emirates Stadium.
The Gunners initially struggled to break down a resilient Saints defense in the first half, and their frustration deepened early in the second half when Southampton substitute Cameron Archer capitalized on a swift counterattack, slotting a low shot into the bottom corner past Aaron Ramsdale.
Arsenal’s response was swift and decisive. Saka, quick to regain possession, set up Kai Havertz, who coolly slotted the ball past Ramsdale, marking his seventh consecutive home goal.
Havertz’s goal came at a crucial time, boosting Arsenal’s momentum.
The comeback was sealed when Gabriel Martinelli, introduced as a substitute, converted Saka’s well-placed diagonal cross.
The goal survived a close VAR offside review, much to the relief of the Arsenal faithful. Saka then capitalized on another Southampton mistake, securing Arsenal’s third and putting the game out of reach.
Earlier, Arsenal had handed Raheem Sterling his first Premier League start and brought Gabriel Jesus into the starting lineup for the first time this season.
Despite their early efforts, they struggled to find the net, leaving the match finely balanced.
Southampton had their moments, with Tyler Dibling hitting the post and a nervous clearance from David Raya nearly causing problems when it rebounded off the crossbar.
In the end, Arsenal dominated with 29 shots, earning a deserved win that keeps them just one point behind league leaders Liverpool.
For Southampton, an improved performance couldn’t prevent another loss, as they remain winless, following up their 3-1 defeat to Bournemouth.
