EPL: Arsenal back on top, defeat Brighton 2-1

Arteta

Arsenal have reclaimed the top spot in the English Premier League after securing a 2‑1 victory over Brighton & Hove Albion at the Emirates Stadium on Saturday.

The Gunners moved back above Manchester City in the title race with the narrow win after Match Day 18.

Martin Ødegaard opened the scoring for Arsenal with a strike from the edge of the box before a Georginio Rutter own goal early in the second half doubled the home side’s advantage.

Brighton pulled a goal back through Diego Gomez, but Arsenal held on to take all three points and return to the summit of the table.

Arsenal’s return to the top of the Premier League comes amid a packed festive fixture schedule as the 2025–26 season heads into the New Year. Punch