Raya’s Sensational Save Keeps Arsenal Top with Brighton Win

Arsenal in ‘Survival’ Mode as Sensational Raya Save Seals Brighton Win

David Raya produced a world-class save to deny Yankuba Minteh in the closing stages as Arsenal battled to a nervy 2-1 victory over Brighton, ensuring they reclaimed top spot in the Premier League.

Odegaard Opens His Account

Martin Odegaard finally got off the mark for the season with a composed finish as Arsenal dominated the first half. They fired 15 shots while Brighton failed to register a single attempt before the break.

Despite their control, Mikel Arteta’s side missed several chances to kill off the game, and the tension mounted as Brighton found a foothold in the second half.

Raya’s Save of the Season Contender

Brighton substitute Minteh looked certain to level in the 76th minute with a curling strike destined for the top corner—until Raya leapt acrobatically to tip the ball over the bar.

“It was sensational,” said Arteta. “That’s what we need in key moments.”

The save sparked wild celebrations, with players rushing to congratulate their goalkeeper. Match of the Day pundit Alan Shearer called it “one of the best saves you’ll see all season.”

Brighton Fightback Falls Short

Brighton changed shape after the break and quickly pulled a goal back, turning a comfortable Arsenal lead into a nail-biting finish. The Gunners were forced into a defensive stance, absorbing pressure to protect the three points.

Former Arsenal winger Leandro Trossard and Bukayo Saka were dangerous in wide areas, but it was Raya’s heroics that ultimately decided the match.

Arsenal Surviving Injury Tests

The win was another test of Arsenal’s depth and resilience. Already without long-term absentee Jurrien Timber, Kai Havertz, and more recently Riccardo Calafiori, Arteta was forced to hand a start to youngster Myles Lewis-Skelly at left-back after a last-minute injury in warm-up.

The positive news came in the return of Gabriel, who made a substitute appearance earlier than expected in his recovery.

“We’ve been surviving for six months,” said Arteta. “The injuries are uniting us.”

Title Race Pressure Rises

For the second straight week, Manchester City had played earlier and temporarily took top spot. But Arsenal responded once more, showing their mental strength under pressure.

Arteta acknowledged the intensity of the title race, saying:

“Playing every three days is going to be a challenge—and we are up for it.”

What’s Next?

• Arsenal face Aston Villa in a top-of-the-table clash next weekend.

• Brighton look to bounce back when they host Everton.