Arsenal bounced back from their Champions League defeat to Porto with a convincing victory over Newcastle United, reigniting their goal-scoring prowess at Emirates Stadium.
In a surprising turn of events earlier in the week, Arsenal failed to record a shot on target against Porto, resulting in a late defeat.
However, their attacking form resurfaced against Newcastle, with four goals past the Magpies.
The scoring commenced in the 19th minute when Loris Karius saved a Gabriel Magalhaes header, which rebounded off Sven Botman and into the net after Newcastle’s failed clearance.
Bukayo Saka extended Arsenal’s lead just after the hour mark with a skillful run and finish, followed by Jakub Kiwior scoring the Gunners’ nineteenth goal from a set-piece only four minutes later.
Despite late efforts from second-half substitutes Dan Burn and Willock, Newcastle managed a consolation goal.
This victory has firmly positioned Arsenal in the title race, and with a favorable fixture schedule ahead, they have the opportunity to surpass Liverpool and Manchester City.
Examining Arsenal’s upcoming matches and comparing them to their title rivals, football.london provides insights into the Gunners’ prospects.
Arsenal’s next five fixtures include an away match against Sheffield United, a home game against Brentford, a Champions League clash against Porto, a London derby against Chelsea, and an away fixture against Manchester City at the end of March.
Mikel Arteta’s team aims to build on the positive momentum gained from the Newcastle victory.
The report acknowledges Arteta’s successful strategy against Newcastle, both defensively and offensively, and anticipates a potentially easier match against Sheffield United, a team that has conceded ten goals in their previous two home games.
Arsenal’s subsequent home games against Brentford and Porto present opportunities to maintain their impressive form.
The London derby against Chelsea in mid-March offers a chance for revenge after a previous two-point loss, leading up to a crucial showdown against Manchester City.
In contrast, Liverpool faces Chelsea in the Carabao Cup, followed by fixtures against Southampton, Nottingham Forest, Manchester City, and Everton.
Manchester City, on the other hand, has upcoming matches against Luton Town, Manchester United, Southampton, and Wolverhampton Wanderers.
As Arsenal aims to capitalize on their favorable fixture list, the focus is on maintaining momentum, improving goal differential, and potentially overtaking their title rivals in the coming weeks.
The analysis suggests that Arsenal’s strategic approach and upcoming fixtures provide a pathway for them to assert themselves in the title race.