Arsenal Dominate Nottingham Forest 5-0 in Postecoglou‘s Premier League Debut
LONDON – Arsenal began their Premier league campaign with a commanding 5-0 victory over Nottingham Forest at Emirates Stadium on Saturday, marking a challenging start for new Forest manager Ange Postecoglou. The win showcased Arsenal’s attacking prowess and summer signings, notably a brace from midfielder Martin Zubimendi.
Zubimendi opened the scoring in the 32nd minute with a powerful volley from the edge of the area, the shot deflecting slightly off Forest defender Murillo. Former Wales defender Danny Gabbidon described the goal as “an absolutely ridiculous strike” on BBC Radio 5 Live.
Arsenal extended their lead just 46 seconds into the second half through Victor Gyokeres,who slotted home a low cross from Eberechi Eze. Gyokeres, a summer signing from Sporting Lisbon, has now scored three goals for Arsenal.
Zubimendi added his second goal in the 79th minute, heading in a cross from Leandro trossard. Arsenal’s other goals came from Mikel Merino and Noni Madueke.
The match marked postecoglou’s first Premier League game in charge of Nottingham Forest, following his appointment in june. While Postecoglou previously managed in the Premier League with Tottenham Hotspur, where he was praised for building a competitive side since 1976-77 last season, he was unable to secure a win in his debut with Forest. He did not win a north London derby as Tottenham boss and was unable to guide Forest to their first victory on Arsenal turf since 1989.
Eze made his first start for Arsenal since joining from Crystal Palace in August, while Declan Rice began the game on the bench. Arsenal’s set-piece threat proved potent throughout the match, with Jurrien Timber’s header flashing just wide in the first half.
Forest came close to scoring when Chris Wood’s flick hit the crossbar, but Arsenal ultimately controlled the game, with Gyokeres also hitting the post in the second half. The home fans taunted Forest with chants of “are you Tottenham in disguise?” late in the match.
