Arsenal extended their lead at the top of the Premier League to nine points with a controlled 3-0 win over Sunderland, as substitute Viktor Gyokeres scored twice to cap a comfortable home performance.
The hosts broke down a stubborn Sunderland side through Martin Zubimendi’s opener before Gyokeres struck late to seal the result.
Sunderland showed resilience early, with Brian Brobbey troubling Arsenal’s defence and seeing a shot cleared off the line by Kai Havertz after David Raya spilled a long ball.
Declan Rice and Havertz both tested Robin Roefs with curling efforts as Arsenal pushed for a breakthrough.
Zubimendi sets the platform
Arsenal finally found a way through when Zubimendi struck from range, his effort beating Roefs after crashing off the post.
It was the midfielder’s fifth league goal of the season and a reward for his consistent presence, having played more minutes than any other Arsenal outfield player this campaign.
Mikel Arteta’s side maintained control despite missing Bukayo Saka and captain Martin Odegaard, limit Sunderland’s attacking threat.
Gyokeres impact off the bench
Gyokeres made the decisive impact after coming on, finishing clinically in the 66th minute after Havertz set him up inside the box.
The Swedish striker added his second in stoppage time, tapping into an empty net after Gabriel Martinelli squared the ball across goal.
Six of Gyokeres’ eight league goals this season have come against newly promoted sides, and his recent run – six goals in his last eight appearances in all competitions, suggests he is growing into Arteta’s system after a slow start.
Arsenal’s defensive record at home remains a cornerstone of their title push, with only eight goals conceded and 29 points collected at the Emirates.
The win marked their ninth home victory from 12 league matches.