The 10-man Arsenal’s perfect start to the new Premier League season came to an end at Emirates Stadium after a 1-1 draw, but Joao Pedro salvaged a point for Brighton.
On minute 38, the hosts broke the tie when Kai Havertz coolly lobbed Bart Verbruggen after latching onto a beautiful through ball from Bukayo Saka.
Although they had been superior, Declan Rice’s second yellow card five minutes into the second half cost the Gunners a point after he appeared to block the visitors’ attempt to take a quick free kick.
The game changed after the incident, and the Seagulls took advantage of their man advantage just before the hour mark when Joao Pedro scored on a rebound after David Raya had denied Yankuba Minteh.
Both sides had chances to win it during a frenetic finale, but Havertz and Saka both failed to find the finish for the home team, while substitute Yasin Ayari fired straight at Raya for the visitors.
After three games played under new manager Fabian Hurzeler, Brighton now 2nd in the Premier League with seven points. Before the rest of the action this weekend, Arsenal is in second place, trailing The Seagulls in goals scored.
After the international break, Arsenal will next play Tottenham in the North London derby on Sunday, September 15. This will be a tough test for the team. Brighton host Ipswich a day earlier.
Published by Ejoh Caleb
