Arsenal returned to the top of the Premier League with a hard-fought 2-1 win over Brighton & Hove Albion.
Martin Ødegaard’s first goal of the season and a crucial late save from David Raya proved decisive.
Arsenal dominated the first half, limiting Brighton to no shots before the break.
Ødegaard opened the scoring after Bukayo Saka capitalised on a Brighton error.
The hosts doubled their lead early in the second half when Georginio Rutter turned in a Declan Rice corner.
Brighton responded unexpectedly through Diego Gómez after the ball rebounded off the post.
Tension followed as Brighton pushed forward.
Raya produced a superb save to deny Yankuba Minteh and protect the lead.
Despite numerous injuries forcing players into unfamiliar roles, Arsenal held firm.
Mikel Arteta said his side must suffer at times but believes resilience is sustainable.
The win kept Arsenal ahead of Manchester City at the summit.
Brighton remain winless in December, despite a much-improved second half.
