Responding to the critics with two goals
Arsenal claimed a victory against Sunderland with key players Ødegaard and Saka absent, thanks to Viktor Gyökeres who scored twice after coming off the bench.
In a notable match without their star players Martin Ødegaard and Bukayo Saka, Arsenal secured a 3-0 win against Sunderland at home. Viktor Gyökeres emerged as a standout performer, responding to previous criticism regarding his goal-scoring ability by netting a double after being substituted in. Commentators noted how crucial his performance was in boosting Arsenal's position at the top of the league.
The match saw Arsenal break the deadlock after 41 minutes, with Martin Zubimendi assisting Leandro Trossard, showcasing the depth of Arsenal's squad even in the absence of key players. Gyökeres’s first goal was particularly celebrated, signaling a turning point for him personally given his recent struggles with scoring. His second goal during stoppage time capped off an impressive performance and contributed significantly to Arsenal's title hopes.
With this win, Arsenal maintains a nine-point lead over Manchester City, who are set to face rivals Liverpool the following day. The pressure is now on City to secure a victory to stay within striking distance in the title race. Arsenal's continued success raises questions about their potential to clinch the league title this year, bolstered by performances like Gyökeres’s that exemplify the team’s resilience and depth.