Arsenal dominated the match from the outset, controlling 61.9% of possession and registering 15 shots compared to Brentford's 6. The Gunners struck first in the 11th minute when Mikel Merino headed home a well-placed cross from Ben White.

With the win, Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal remained five points clear of Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City, on top of the league standings after 14 rounds.

Arsenal restore their five-point lead at the summit of the Premier League table courtesy of a hard-fought 2-0 victory over London rivals Brentford at the Emirates Stadium.

Arsenal face Brentford at the Emirates Stadium with a chance to return to winning form following the draw with Chelsea at Stamford Bridge. After Manchester City closed the gap to two points following the enthralling 5-4 victory at Fulham, the pressure is somewhat on the Gunners to win.

Mikel Merino and Bukayo Saka scored at the Emirates, as Arsenal beat Brentford to maintain their stranglehold on Premier League top spot.

Arsenal’s hard‑fought win over Brentford revealed five crucial lessons. From Merino’s finishing to Raya’s save, here’s what stood out.

Mikel Merino and Bukayo Saka score as Arsenal beat Brentford to restore their five-point lead at the top of the Premier League table.

Follow the play-by-play updates from the ARS vs BRE, Matchday 14 fixture at Emirates Stadium on December 3, 2025

In high-stakes matches, individual brilliance often makes the difference. For Arsenal, players like Bukayo Saka and Martin Ødegaard are pivotal. Saka's pace and dribbling skills can stretch defenses, while Ødegaard’s vision and passing ability are crucial in linking play. Fans will be keen to see if these stars can deliver on the big stage.

Follow build-up to six games including Arsenal v Brentford, Brighton v Aston villa, Liverpool v Sunderland and more.

Arsenal's third-straight London derby sees the Gunners hoping to get back to winning ways as they return home and host Brentford on Wednesday at the Emirates Stadium.