Arsenal delivered a resounding statement of intent with a 2-1 victory over London rivals Chelsea at the Emirates Stadium on Sunday, ending Chelsea's unbeaten start to the Premier League season. The win was Arsenal's third consecutive league triumph, moving them to nine points, second behind Manchester City on goal difference.

Chelsea took a shock lead after just 77 seconds when Morgan Rogers, their record £117 million signing from Aston Villa, volleyed home from the edge of the box. However, Arsenal responded emphatically, with Kai Havertz equalizing against his former club in the 25th minute and Martin Odegaard scoring the winner early in the second half.

The victory showcased Arsenal's maturity and title-winning credentials, as they aim for their first back-to-back league titles since the 1930s. For Chelsea's new manager Xabi Alonso, the defeat was his first since taking charge, highlighting the defensive frailties that remain in his squad.

Arsenal's manager Mikel Arteta praised his team's character, while Chelsea's defense was exposed once again, with goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez at fault for Havertz's equalizer. Despite late pressure from Chelsea, including a close-range effort from Malo Gusto and a rocket from Estevao Willian that was tipped over by David Raya, Arsenal held on for a crucial win.

Odegaard told Sky Sports: "It was a massive game against a tough opponent. Conceding early is never ideal, but our reaction was top. We could have scored more goals and got our reward. It was a brilliant performance."

Source: www.aljazeera.com