Arsenal ended Aston Villa’s 11-match winning run with an impressive 4-1 victory at the Emirates Stadium, moving five points clear at the top of the Premier League.
The hosts started brightly, helped by the return of Gabriel to the starting line-up. Arsenal created the first real chance when Piero Hincapié crossed for Viktor Gyökeres, who headed over the bar. Villa appealed for a penalty when Amadou Onana went down in the box, but the referee awarded only a corner. Villa then grew into the game, with Ollie Watkins firing wide after good work from Ezri Konsa.
Villa’s hopes were damaged early in the second half when Onana was forced off injured. Arsenal took advantage in the 48th minute as Bukayo Saka’s corner caused problems and Emiliano Martínez spilled the ball, allowing Gabriel to score from close range.
Five minutes later, Arsenal doubled their lead. Martin Ødegaard won the ball and played in Martín Zubimendi, who calmly finished to make it 2-0. Villa struggled to respond and Arsenal stayed in control.
Leandro Trossard added a third goal with a powerful strike from the edge of the box, effectively ending the contest. Although Gabriel was later forced off injured, Arsenal continued to push forward.
Substitute Gabriel Jesus made an instant impact, curling home Arsenal’s fourth goal after a fine pass from Trossard. Bukayo Saka went close to adding another, while Villa managed a late consolation goal through Watkins in stoppage time.
The win strengthens Arsenal’s position at the top of the table, while Villa’s impressive winning run comes to an end.
