Viktor Gyokeres scored a second-half brace following Martin Zubimendi’s opener to secure a 3-0 victory over Sunderland, moving Arsenal nine points clear at the top of the Premier League.
LONDON – Viktor Gyokeres climbed off the bench to score twice as Arsenal dismantled Sunderland 3-0 at the Emirates Stadium on Saturday, extending their lead at the top of the Premier League to nine points.
Mikel Arteta’s side initially struggled to break down a resilient Black Cats defense. The breakthrough finally arrived in the 42nd minute when Martin Zubimendi unleashed an excellent low strike that beat goalkeeper Robin Roefs, clipping the post on its way into the net.
Despite the deficit, Sunderland remained a threat. Brian Brobbey’s physicality caused significant problems for the Gunners’ backline, and the forward nearly equalized when he forced a goal-line clearance from Kai Havertz after David Raya fumbled a high ball into the area.
Arsenal regained control in the second half, with Declan Rice and Havertz both going close with curling efforts. The introduction of Gyokeres proved decisive; in the 66th minute, the Swedish international slammed home a clinical finish after being teed up by Havertz.
Gyokeres secured his brace in stoppage time, tapping into an empty net after Gabriel Martinelli unselfishly rolled the ball across the face of the goal following a rapid counter-attack.
With Aston Villa held to a draw by Bournemouth and Manchester City not playing until Sunday, the result places immense pressure on Arsenal’s title rivals. The Gunners now sit comfortably atop the table with a significant nine-point cushion as the race enters its final stages.