Noni Madueke finally brought an end to his long wait for a Premier League goal as Arsenal delivered a ruthless 4-0 victory over Leeds United at Elland Road, reinforcing their authority at the top of the table.
Drafted into the starting line-up following Bukayo Saka’s injury, the winger seized his opportunity with a performance that blended urgency, invention and a decisive moment that put a personal milestone firmly behind him.
Arsenal set the tone with a composed and controlled first-half display, dominating possession and repeatedly stretching a Leeds defence that struggled to cope with their movement.
The breakthrough arrived in the 27th minute when Martin Zubimendi rose highest to power home a header, rewarding sustained pressure and giving the visitors a deserved lead.
Madueke’s defining contribution followed shortly after. Operating with confidence on the right flank, he was a constant menace from set-pieces, and his inswinging corner in the 38th minute caused chaos in the Leeds penalty area.
Goalkeeper Karl Darlow could only punch the ball against Dominic Calvert-Lewin and onto the post, with the goal officially credited as an own goal, but recorded as an Olimpico strike from Madueke. It was his first Premier League goal in 12 months, ending a drought that had lingered since his last league effort for Chelsea against Manchester City in January 2025.
The goal visibly lifted Madueke, who continued to play with freedom and intent after the break. Arsenal, already in control, pressed their advantage with patience and precision, denying Leeds any foothold in the contest.
The hosts struggled to respond, failing to turn promising moments into clear chances as Arsenal’s defensive structure remained disciplined and compact.
While the scoreline ultimately reflected a collective effort, Madueke’s performance carried added significance.
Since his move from Chelsea to the Emirates in the summer of 2025, the winger has already found the net three times in the Champions League, suggesting his attacking output had never truly deserted him. Translating that form back into domestic competition now gives Arsenal another valuable weapon.
With Saka sidelined, Madueke’s return to scoring form could prove crucial in the weeks ahead.
