Declan Rice marked his return from injury with a decisive double, spearheading a spirited second-half comeback as Arsenal secured a vital 3-2 victory over Bournemouth at the Vitality Stadium. The hard-fought win extends the Gunners' lead at the Premier League summit to six points.
Gabriel's Blunder and Immediate Redemption
The match began in chaotic fashion for the league leaders. Bournemouth were gifted the opening goal in the 13th minute after a rare and costly error from the usually reliable Gabriel Magalhães. The Brazilian defender's ambitious pass was intercepted, allowing Bournemouth striker Evanilson a simple finish to stun the travelling Arsenal support.
Manager Mikel Arteta's fury was palpable, but his side responded swiftly. The equaliser came just before the half-hour mark, and it was Gabriel who provided the perfect atonement. After a move involving Noni Madueke and Gabriel Martinelli, the centre-back lashed the ball home with his left foot to make it 1-1.
Rice Takes Command After the Break
After a disjointed first half, Arsenal emerged after the interval with renewed purpose. Declan Rice, who had passed a late fitness test, put the visitors ahead just a minute into the second half. A neat team move was finished expertly by the England midfielder, his low drive beating Bournemouth goalkeeper Djordje Petrovic.
Rice then effectively sealed the points midway through the half, completing his brace with a cool finish following brilliant interplay between substitutes Bukayo Saka and Martin Ødegaard. The £105 million signing celebrated by planting a kiss on a pitchside camera, underscoring his importance to Arsenal's title charge.
Nervy Finish as Bournemouth Rally
Just as the contest seemed over, Bournemouth substitute Eli Junior Kroupi ignited late drama. His powerful 25-yard strike flew past David Raya with 16 minutes remaining, setting up a tense finale. The home side pushed for an unlikely equaliser, with their fans left incensed when referee Chris Kavanagh blew for full-time as they mounted one final attack.
However, Arsenal held firm to claim a fifth consecutive league win. This victory also served as a measure of revenge for Mikel Arteta's men, who suffered a 2-1 defeat at the same venue last May. The result moves Arsenal six points clear at the top of the table, applying significant pressure on their rivals ahead of a crucial period in the season.
