……Bukayo Saka’s second-half goal gave Arsenal a 1-0 victory over Aston Villa at Villa Park.
Saka struck in the 59th minute after being set up by Riccardo Calafiori, giving Arsenal all three points in a closely contested match.
Arsenal controlled much of the possession, seeing 61% of the ball, but both sides managed seven shots.
Saka makes the difference
The game remained goalless until the 59th minute, when Saka converted Calafiori’s assist to put Arsenal ahead.
Villa were unable to find an equaliser, despite Arsenal struggling to create a large number of clear chances.
Arsenal registered two shots on target compared with none from Villa.
Villa frustrated as Arsenal dominate possession
Arsenal’s possession advantage was reflected in their 61-39% share of the ball.
Villa, however, were more physical, committing 17 fouls to Arsenal’s six and receiving three yellow cards.
Arsenal were also caught offside eight times, compared with none for Villa.
Match events
- 29’ — Christos Tzolis was booked.
- 46’ — Eberechi Eze replaced Tzolis.
- 59’ — Bukayo Saka scored for Arsenal, assisted by Riccardo Calafiori.
- Full-time: Aston Villa 0-1 Arsenal.
What the result means
Arsenal’s victory came despite a relatively low number of shots, with the visitors producing seven attempts and two on target.
Villa had seven attempts of their own but failed to register a shot on target, leaving Saka’s second-half strike as the decisive moment.
“Bukayo Saka’s 59th-minute goal was enough to separate the two sides at Villa Park.”
