In an exciting showdown teased as the Premier League's gift-wrapping day
Arsenal (name)
An unexpected gift of generosity. Legendary manager Arsene Wenger returned to the Emirates Stadium to watch the game for the first time since his farewell in 2018. And Arsenal repaid the favor in spades as they pulled away from last season's champions Manchester City, who played a game less, with a come-from-behind 3-1 home win over West Ham United to move a step closer to their first Premier League trophy in nearly 19 years.
Arsenal almost broke through just four minutes into the match when a shot by Bukayo Shaka went close but was disallowed for offside. Nonetheless, Arsenal were undeterred and instead suffered a blow in the 27th minute of the first half when center back William Saliba committed a foul in the box, leading to a penalty kick opportunity for West Ham United, which Binh Wahma converted to break the deadlock.
However, Arsenal's attack did not let up. In the 53rd minute, Martyn Odigat equalized when he deftly passed the ball to Bukayo Shaka after what looked like a shot on goal, and the latter fired the ball into the net. The 21-year-old England international also became the first Arsenal player since Thierry Henry (2002-2004) to score in three consecutive years on the Premier League's gift-wrapping day.
Just five minutes later, a direct ball from Gleshaga found Gabier Martinelli, who made it 2-1 with a low shot to help put Arsenal back in front. Arsenal then kept up the pressure, and in the 69th minute, Martyn Odigat sent another precise direct ball, and Nikitia sealed the 3-1 win with a shot. It's worth noting that for the second year in a row, Martyn Odigat contributed two assists on this Premier League gift-wrapping day.
Arsenal has been undefeated at home in the Premier League for ten consecutive seasons, and is gaining momentum. It is conceivable that Wenger will be heartily pleased with Arsenal's excellent performance when he returns to the field this time.
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