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London, August 12, 2023 – The highly anticipated match between Arsenal and Nottingham Forest took place at Emirates Stadium on Saturday evening. In an exhilarating clash, Arsenal managed to secure a full three points with a 2-1 victory.
Both of Arsenal’s winning goals against Forest were scored during the first half, courtesy of Eddie Nketiah and Bukayo Saka. Nottingham Forest managed to narrow the gap in the second half through Taiwo Awoniyi’s strike.
Let’s delve into the player ratings for Arsenal in this match:
Aaron Ramsdale – Rating: 6
Ramsdale had relatively few tests during the game. Unfortunately, he couldn’t maintain a clean sheet as Awoniyi breached his goal from close range with a header.
Thomas Partey – Rating: 7
Mikel Arteta’s gamble to deploy Partey as a right-back paid off. Partey exhibited great versatility by actively participating in both offensive and defensive plays while occasionally covering the midfield.
Ben White – Rating: 6
White displayed steadfastness in safeguarding Arsenal’s defensive territory. However, he couldn’t prevent Awoniyi from scoring during a counter-attack situation.
William Saliba – Rating: 6.5
Saliba started off a bit sluggish in the match but gradually found his rhythm. He even contributed an assist for Saka’s goal. His performance improved over the course of the game.
Jurrien Timber – Rating: 6.5
Timber may not be the most explosive left-back and might not contribute heavily to the offense, but his defensive discipline was evident. Unfortunately, his debut was marred by a knee injury.
Declan Rice – Rating: 7
Rice exhibited an exceptional performance in the midfield. His defensive discipline was notable, and he showcased quick thinking while initiating attacking plays. He came close to scoring in the second half.
Martin Odegaard – Rating: 7
Odegaard excelled in his role as Arsenal’s creative playmaker. He consistently troubled the opposition’s defense and caused problems throughout the game.
Kai Havertz – Rating: 6
Havertz showcased commendable off-the-ball movements, but his decision-making while in possession sometimes proved too slow. His performance was comparatively weaker than in the previous week’s Community Shield match.
Bukayo Saka – Rating: 8
Saka delivered an impressive performance throughout the game. The 21-year-old player consistently posed a threat to Nottingham Forest’s defense and scored a spectacular curved shot goal.
Eddie Nketiah – Rating: 7
Nketiah was pivotal in breaking the deadlock for Arsenal with his impressive play in the opponent’s penalty area. Arteta’s decision to place trust in him as the striker was well-founded.
Gabriel Martinelli – Rating: 8
Martinelli demonstrated brilliance by providing a splendid assist to Nketiah through an individual effort and a backheel pass. He consistently troubled the opposition’s defense.
Substitutes:
Takehiro Tomiyasu – Rating: 6
Tomiyasu was entrusted to take over Timber’s left-back position. He displayed a solid performance in the second half.
Leandro Trossard – Rating: 6.5
Trossard frequently posed a danger to the opponent’s defense. However, he was unable to thwart Anthony Elanga’s counter-attack, which ultimately led to Awoniyi’s goal.
Gabriel Magalhaes – Not Rated
Magalhaes made a late appearance in the second half.
The Premier League’s opening week saw Arsenal exhibit strong form and secure a valuable victory against Nottingham Forest. The team showcased their prowess in both attack and defense, leaving fans eager to see how the rest of the season unfolds.
