EPL: Arsenal Overcome Southampton Scare to Maintain Unbeaten Run

Arsenal recovered from Cameron Archer's shock opener to defeat Southampton 3-1, thanks to goals from Kai Havertz, Gabriel Martinelli, and Bukayo Saka, maintaining their unbeaten start.

Arsenal extended their unbeaten run to 16 matches in all competitions, overcoming a stubborn Southampton side 3-1 at Emirates Stadium. The Gunners trailed after Cameron Archer's 55th-minute opener but responded through Kai Havertz and Gabriel Martinelli before Bukayo Saka sealed the win.

Southampton, still seeking their first victory, weathered Arsenal's early pressure, restricting them to one first-half shot on target. Thomas Partey was denied by Aaron Ramsdale, while Jan Bednarek blocked Raheem Sterling's rebound.

The visitors took an unexpected lead after the break, but Arsenal responded swiftly. Havertz curved an excellent finish into the net (58'), and Martinelli timed his run perfectly to meet Saka's cross (68'). Saka then scored the third (88').

Southampton showed resilience, hitting the woodwork twice through Dibling and Adam Armstrong, but Arsenal's substitutions injected energy, securing the win.

Mikel Arteta's side became the second club in Premier League history to record 400 home wins. They remain one point behind leaders Liverpool ahead of the international break.

Arteta praised his team's response: “We showed great character and resilience to come back from a difficult moment. The players deserve credit for their mental strength.”

Bukayo Saka's involvement in all three goals took his tally to three goals and seven assists this season.

Kai Havertz became the first Arsenal player to score in seven consecutive home appearances since Robin van Persie in March 2012.

Southampton matched their worst-ever top-flight run, going 20 matches without a win, last achieved in 1969.

Match Stats:

• Arsenal: 3 (Havertz 58', Martinelli 68', Saka 88')
• Southampton: 1 (Archer 55')
• Possession: Arsenal 63% - Southampton 37%
• Total shots: Arsenal 21 - Southampton 10

Premier League Standings:

• Arsenal: 17 points (2nd)
• Southampton: 1 point (19th)

Upcoming Fixtures:

• Arsenal: (Bournemouth)
• Southampton: (Leicester City)