Madueke fires Arsenal to late victory over Nottingham Forest

By Kazeem Ugbodaga

Arsenal secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Nottingham Forest in the Premier League on Sunday, thanks to Noni Madueke’s late goal that settled a tightly contested encounter.

Madueke struck in the 80th minute after receiving a pass from Declan Rice, firing towards goal from the edge of the penalty area. His effort took a deflection, leaving Forest goalkeeper Matz Sels unable to prevent the ball from finding the net.

The goal rewarded Arsenal’s sustained pressure after a largely frustrating afternoon against a Forest side that defended resolutely and threatened on the counterattack.

Arsenal dominated possession, enjoying 76 per cent of the ball in the first half, but struggled to turn their control into clear-cut chances. Bukayo Saka and Martin Ødegaard helped drive the visitors’ attacking play, while Forest remained organised at the back.

Kai Havertz came close in the 41st minute, sending a shot narrowly wide from inside the penalty area. Forest also had opportunities, with Dan Ndoye firing wide after receiving a pass from Liam Delap in the 19th minute.

David Raya kept Arsenal in the contest with important interventions, including a save from Murillo’s header in the 54th minute as Forest sought to take advantage of a corner.

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta introduced Madueke at half-time, replacing Eberechi Eze, and the winger eventually made the decisive impact. The goal came after Arsenal had increased their attacking pressure, with Declan Rice also going close in the 72nd minute.

Forest pushed for an equaliser in the closing stages. Chris Wood saw his effort in the 89th minute cleared off the goal line, while Murillo dragged a shot narrowly wide in stoppage time. Liam Delap also forced a crucial block as the hosts mounted a late assault.

Arsenal’s defence held firm through the final minutes, with the referee bringing the match to an end after seven minutes of second-half stoppage time.

The victory gave Arsenal a valuable three points away from home, while Forest were left to rue their missed opportunities after an otherwise disciplined performance.