Premier League champions Arsenal recovered from an early setback to defeat Chelsea 2-1 in an entertaining London derby at Emirates Stadium, extending the Blues’ losing league run at the ground to five matches.
Chelsea struck after only two minutes when £117 million summer arrival Morgan Rogers volleyed home following Arsenal’s failure to deal with a Reece James free-kick, becoming the first player to breach Mikel Arteta’s defence this season.
Arsenal responded with sustained pressure and drew level after 25 minutes through former Chelsea forward Kai Havertz, who beat Emiliano Martinez at his near post. Chelsea threatened to regain the advantage when Pedro Neto struck the woodwork, but Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard delivered the decisive goal five minutes after half-time, finishing after a clever Havertz dummy.
Chelsea, who spent almost £350 million during the summer window, pushed for a late equaliser, but David Raya produced an outstanding fingertip save to deny substitute Estevao and secure Arsenal’s comeback victory.