Brazilian Gabriel Martinelli celebrates scoring the first goal of the match at Selhurst Park. (Photo: AFP)
Arsenal got an important early win (2-0) on their visit to another London team, Crystal Palace, this Friday in the match that served to open the 2022/23 season of the English Premier League.
The victory smacks of revenge for the ‘Gunners’, who had suffered a 3-0 loss in April on that same stage at Selhurst Park. That setback started a losing streak that ended up preventing Arsenal from qualifying for the Champions League.
This time Mikel Arteta’s team controlled the situation well, especially in the first twenty minutes, until the scoring was opened with a header from the Brazilian Gabriel Martinelli (minute 20) from a corner kick.
Crystal Palace were able to raise their heads in the last moments of the first half, with chances from Frenchman Odsonne Edouard (42′ and 45+1′).
In the second half, those from north London had a harder time taking the initiative.
Eberechi Eze came close to equalizing in the 52nd minute, but Arsenal ended up getting the peace of mind when Bukayo Saka’s powerful cross in the 85th minute was deflected into his own net by Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi.
The Brazilian Gabriel Jesús, arrived at the ‘gunners’ from Manchester City and called to be the offensive leader of his team, could not score but he showed himself in the attack and contributed to generating danger.
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The first day of the Premier League continues on Saturday, with Liverpool and Chelsea visiting Fulham and Everton, respectively.
In addition, Miguel Almirón’s Newcastle will debut tomorrow receiving promoted Nottingham Forest (10:00).
Defending champions Manchester City kick off their league season on Sunday by visiting West Ham.
For its part, Julio Enciso’s Brighton will visit Old Trafford to face Manchester United, also on Sunday (09:00).
