Arsenal bounce back to beat Leeds 2-1

By Tosin Omojola

Arsenal revived their Premier League title defence with a hard-fought victory over Leeds United, producing an impressive second-half comeback on their return to league action.

The Gunners had opened their campaign with four consecutive wins, conceding just one goal, before suffering a humiliating 3-0 defeat to Brighton ahead of the three-week international break.

Leeds, however, proved a difficult opponent, showing defensive discipline and attacking courage before taking the lead 10 minutes into the second half.

James Justin sent the travelling supporters into celebration when he fired home from Gabriel Gudmundsson’s pull-back, giving Leeds hope of securing their first league victory away to Arsenal since May 2003.

Arsenal initially struggled to find their rhythm but responded quickly, with Riccardo Calafiori converting from close range after being set up by Ben White.

Manager Mikel Arteta then made a triple substitution, including the introduction of £75 million summer signing Bruno Guimaraes, as the atmosphere at the Emirates Stadium shifted in favour of the hosts.

Guimaraes completed the turnaround eight minutes later, finishing confidently from the edge of the penalty area after a flowing Arsenal move.

The victory narrowed Arsenal’s gap to Premier League leaders Manchester City, who remained top on goal difference ahead of their trip to Anfield to face Liverpool on Sunday.