Arsenal beat Brighton 2-1 thanks to Martin Ødegaard’s low long-range opener and a Brighton own goal from a Declan Rice corner. Brighton hit back through Diego Gómez, but goalkeeper David Raya’s late fingertip save preserved the victory.

The match was dominated by Arsenal’s pressure and set-piece threat, a nervy finish but three crucial points that put Arsenal top of the table. Next up: Aston Villa at the Emirates on December 30, then Bournemouth away on January 3.