Arsenal 4-2 Leicester: Gunners player ratings as they score two late goals to seal three points

Modified Sep 28, 2024 16:52 GMT

Arsenal FC v Leicester City FC - Premier League - Source: Getty

Arsenal beat Leicester City 4-2 in the Premier League on Saturday, September 28, at the Emirates Stadium. The Gunners walked away from the match with all three points thanks to their potent attack, but will rue their poor defending.

The first goal came though an impressive passage of play by the Gunners. Bukayo Saka and Jurrien Timber combined perfectly on the flank, with the full-back getting onto the ball and powering a low cross into the penalty area.

The ball was met perfectly by Gabriel Martinelli, who wrong-footed goalkeeper Mads Hermansen while placing his effort into the bottom left corner (20'). Martinelli provided the assist for the second goal, playing a perfect pass to Leandro Trossard, who side-footed the ball into the bottom right corner (45+1').

The second half, however, saw things turn around drastically for Arsenal, as James Justin powered Leicester City level. A free-kick delivery from Facundo Buonanotte into the box was met with Justin's header, which deflected into the goal (47').

Wilfred Ndidi was the provider of the equalizer as Justin met his cross perfectly on the volley, which crashed into the post and nestled in the net (63').

Arsenal began to chase after the winner, doing their best to break down a Leicester defense that seemed to hold on well. However, the Foxes could not hold on for long enough, as a corner routine deep into stoppage time saw Wilfred Ndidi score an own-goal to get the Gunners ahead.

Leicester broke down totally and could not hold on much longer, with Kai Havertz finishing the rout five minutes later to end the game 4-2.

Arsenal player ratings

David Raya - 5/10

The Gunners goalkeeper looked assured in possession, but he could have done better in helping them keep a clean sheet. He made just one save throughout the game.

Riccardo Calafiori - 6/10

The Italian defender was a powerhouse in attack, getting forward constantly and putting pressure on the Leicester City defense. He also had impressive dribbling and consistent passing. However, his defending was lacking somewhat, as James Justin scored from his side of the defense.

Gabriel - 5.5/10

Gabriel Magalhaes could not help keep the Foxes' efforts out of the Gunners' net.

William Saliba - 5/10

While Gabriel got forward more often in attack and powered some shots at goal, Saliba held down the fort. However, some poor defending cost them two goals.

Jurrien Timber - 7/10

The Dutch full-back linked up brilliantly with Bukayo Saka on the right flank, setting up the first goal of the game with a perfect low cross into the box.

Declan Rice - 6/10

Declan Rice was everywhere with the ball today, making an impressive 108 touches. However, his impact in attack was diluted by the Leicester City defenders.

Thomas Partey - 6/10

Linking up well with Rice in midfield, Thomas Partey also had 105 touches of the ball. He focused on the more defensive side of things and held down the midfield fairly well.

Leandro Trossard - 7/10

The playmaker has taken up his role in Martin Odegaard's absence fairly well. He got the second goal of the game and was key to Ndidi's own goal that secured Arsenal's lead.

Gabriel Martinelli - 7/10

The winger seems to have returned to his best form, scoring the first goal of the game and providing the assist for the second, all before the half-time whistle.

Bukayo Saka - 7/10

Bukayo Saka did everything, except score a goal. The 23-year-old constantly dribbled past players and threatened City's defense with his tricky passes.

Kai Havertz - 7/10

While he didn't get into a lot of the build-up play, Kai Havertz was a big threat in the box, taking seven shots at goal. He eventually found the goal he was looking for in the ninth minute of stoppage time.