Havertz and Ødegaard strike as Arsenal claim London derby spoils

Arsenal recovered from an early setback to beat Chelsea 2-1 at Emirates Stadium and move level on nine points with Manchester City at the top of the Premier League.

Chelsea took the lead after only two minutes when Morgan Rogers finished to give the visitors a dream start in the London derby. His celebration in front of the Arsenal supporters added to the early tension, with the Chelsea player appearing to provoke the home crowd.

Rogers puts Chelsea ahead early in the derby ⚽️🔥

Arsenal responded strongly after falling behind and found an equaliser in the 25th minute. Kai Havertz got the home side back into the match, ensuring the two teams went into half-time level at 1-1.

Havertz brings Arsenal level for the Gunners 🔥⚽️

The hosts continued to press after the interval and completed the turnaround five minutes into the second half. Martin Ødegaard scored in the 50th minute to put Arsenal in front for the first time.

Ødegaard scores the Gunners’ second goal 🔥⚽️

Chelsea had started the match with the advantage, but Arsenal’s response changed the direction of the contest. After Ødegaard’s goal, Arsenal controlled a large share of possession and created a series of dangerous attacks as they looked to extend their lead.

The home side was unable to add a third, however, with Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez making a number of important saves to prevent Arsenal from increasing their advantage.

Arsenal held on to secure victory and take their points tally to nine from the opening three league matches. That leaves them level with Manchester City at the top of the table.

Chelsea, meanwhile, remain on six points and occupy fourth place following the defeat.

The result gives Arsenal the points in a derby which began with Chelsea in front but ended with the home side celebrating a comeback win at Emirates Stadium. Rogers’ early goal briefly put the visitors in control, before Havertz restored parity and Ødegaard completed Arsenal’s turnaround.

The match was played in the third round of the Premier League.

Fans can discuss the match and other football news in greater depth on the Kooora forums.