By Dorcas Francis Koji
Arsenal produced a spirited comeback at the Emirates Stadium on Sunday, defeating London rivals Chelsea 2-1 to maintain their perfect start to the 2026/27 Premier League season.
The defending champions were forced to come from behind after Chelsea took an early lead just two minutes into the encounter.
Morgan Rogers opened the scoring for the Blues with a superb volley, giving Chelsea an ideal start in the highly anticipated London derby.
Arsenal thought they had restored parity in the 12th minute, but their effort was ruled out for offside following a Video Assistant Referee review involving Ezri Konsa.
The Gunners continued to push forward, and their persistence finally paid off in the 25th minute when former Chelsea striker Kai Havertz found the equaliser.
Havertz received a pass from Declan Rice before cutting towards the right and firing a low effort towards the near post to bring Arsenal level.
The hosts completed their comeback shortly after the restart.
Just five minutes into the second half, Arsenal captain Martin Ødegaard put the champions ahead with a powerful finish.
Christos Tzolis supplied the ball, with Havertz cleverly allowing it to run through before Ødegaard connected with a fierce strike that beat the Chelsea defence and gave Arsenal the lead.
Chelsea were unable to find another equaliser as Arsenal held on for a valuable victory in front of their home supporters.
The result means Mikel Arteta’s side have collected the maximum nine points from their opening three league matches and moved into second place, level on points with leaders Manchester City.
Chelsea, meanwhile, remain fourth with six points after suffering their first defeat of the campaign.
The Blues had previously opened the season with a 3-2 victory over Fulham at Craven Cottage before edging Brighton 4-3 at Stamford Bridge.
Arsenal’s victory also strengthens their early title defence, while Chelsea will now look to respond quickly after seeing their unbeaten start come to an end at the Emirates.
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