Arsenal reclaimed third place in the Premier League with a commanding 5-1 victory over Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park on Saturday. Brazilian striker Gabriel Jesus was the star of the show, scoring twice in the first half and playing a pivotal role in his team’s dominant performance.
The win marked a sensational continuation of Jesus’ form against Palace, having netted a hat-trick in their recent League Cup quarter-final encounter. With two more goals today, he has now scored five times in just four days against their London rivals.
Arsenal got off to a flying start in the sixth minute when Jesus opened the scoring after a brilliant assist from Bukayo Saka. However, Palace responded quickly, equalizing just five minutes later through Ismaila Sarr, who curled a beautiful shot past Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya.
Arsenal regained the lead through a well-executed corner, with Jesus again on target, this time guiding the ball in off the post for his second goal. The Brazilian was unlucky not to complete a first-half hat-trick when his header rattled the post in the 38th minute, but teammate Kai Havertz was in the right place to tap in the rebound and make it 3-1.
In the second half, Palace had a few chances to close the gap, but Raya was in fine form, saving Sarr’s diving header and a powerful shot from Jean-Philippe Mateta. The hosts were unable to capitalize on their opportunities, and Arsenal put the game to bed with two more goals. Despite Jesus being denied a third by Palace goalkeeper Dean Henderson, Declan Rice’s powerful strike was turned in by Gabriel Martinelli to extend the lead to 5-1.
The victory sees Arsenal jump back above Nottingham Forest into third place, though manager Mikel Arteta will be concerned by an injury to Saka, who limped off midway through the first half. However, the Gunners’ dominant display ensured a confident return to form as they aim to keep their title challenge alive.
With the win, Arsenal will head into their upcoming fixtures with renewed confidence as they look to build on their strong performance and continue to challenge at the top of the Premier League.
