Arsenal defeated Sunderland 3-0 at the Emirates in the Premier League. The Gunners remain six points clear of Manchester City, following City’s win at Anfield. This victory is crucial as Arsenal continues to maintain control in the title race. Not much has changed since Arsenal was seven points clear, as we discussed in our previous article. Without further ado, let’s discuss this win in our Arsenal Report 2 – Sunderland Routed article.
Arsenal Report 2 – Sunderland Routed: Another Clean Sheet
The Gunners defended very well against Sunderland, limiting the Black Cats to only a few opportunities. David Raya made an uncharacteristic mistake, but Kai Havertz intervened to prevent a Sunderland goal. Gabriel, Saliba, and Timber played well. They ensured that Sunderland had very few chances, even in a relatively competitive first half.
Riccardo Calafiori was a bit rusty. However, Leandro Trossard helped him defensively and made sure that Sunderland couldn’t attack effectively down their right. Calafiori’s rustiness isn’t much of a concern. He hasn’t played too much lately, so he should be back to his best soon.
Arsenal also competed well in the midfield.
The Gunners Held Their Own In Midfield
Sunderland had slightly more possession than Arsenal, 51% to 49%. However, Arsenal battled well in the midfield and Sunderland’s slight edge in possession ultimately mattered little. Declan Rice had another excellent performance, shutting down Sunderland attacks and driving Arsenal forward well. Martin Zubimendi created multiple chances with his line-breaking passes and opened the scoring with a fantastic goal.
Kai Havertz played well in Arsenal’s midfield. Havertz provided the assist for Gyokeres’ first goal and prevented a Sunderland goal. Havertz has thrived in his current second striker role, particularly while playing behind Viktor Gyokeres. Mikel Arteta should continue playing this combination, since it has proven to be quite effective.
The Gunners’ attack performed well in this match, as well.
Arsenal Report 2 – Sunderland Routed: Viktor Gyokeres Continues His Excellent Form
Gabriel Jesus was largely ineffective against Sunderland. However, thankfully, that was not the case for Viktor Gyokeres. Gyokeres scored a brace off the bench against Sunderland to make sure Arsenal earned all three points. The Swedish striker took some time to adjust to Arsenal’s system, his new teammates, and the English Premier League more broadly.
Despite this, Gyokeres now has eight goal contributions in his last eight matches and 15 goal contributions in all competitions so far this season. Arsenal’s number 14 has found his form at the perfect time. His movement, aggression, physicality, and powerful finishing all look sharper than they did earlier in the season.
Viktor Gyokeres finding form now could be one of the keys for Arsenal winning several major trophies this season.
Arsenal Are Also in the League Cup Final
It’s important to mention that the Gunners have advanced to the League Cup Final after beating Chelsea 4-2 on aggregate. They will face Manchester City at Wembley on March 22nd. Arsenal need to win that to secure their first trophy of the season and give themselves a psychological boost over their title rivals. Arteta has never lost at Wembley in 12 visits. Let’s hope that streak continues on March 22nd.
The Gunners Face Brentford Away Next
Arsenal will play Brentford away in the Premier League next. Arsenal has to continue its winning run to keep Manchester City at bay in the title race. The Gunners have already beaten Brentford this season and should do so again.
Check back next week for the next installment of the Arsenal report series.