Guimaraes scores winner on home debut as Arsenal rally past Leeds
Bruno Guimaraes struck the decisive goal on his first competitive home appearance as Arsenal came from behind to beat Leeds United and collect three vital Premier League points at the Emirates Stadium.
Arsenal answer after Brighton setback
Arsenal returned from the international break needing an immediate reaction after their 3-0 defeat at Brighton. They found one, although Leeds made the reigning champions work hard for it.
The win keeps Mikel Arteta’s side level with Manchester City at the top on points, with City ahead only on goal difference. City travel to Liverpool at Anfield on Sunday.
Arsenal also avoided a damaging slip against a Leeds team that had not won a league match away to the Gunners since May 2003.
Leeds lead before Arsenal turn the game
The visitors frustrated Arsenal during a slow opening hour, staying organised and showing enough ambition to unsettle the home side.
Leeds took the lead 10 minutes after the interval when James Justin finished Gabriel Gudmundsson’s cross, silencing the Emirates.
Arsenal responded quickly. Riccardo Calafiori turned in Ben White’s clever assist from close range to restore parity before Guimaraes changed the contest with his clinical finish.
- James Justin put Leeds ahead after the break.
- Riccardo Calafiori equalised for Arsenal from close distance.
- Bruno Guimaraes scored the match-defining goal.
- It was Guimaraes’ second goal for Arsenal and his first at the Emirates.
Guimaraes wants to force Arteta’s hand
The Brazilian midfielder said Arsenal had fallen below their standards at Brighton but showed the right response against Leeds.
“It feels unbelievable,” Guimaraes said after the match. “Against Brighton, we were not at the level. Today, the mentality was about bouncing back.”
He added that scoring in his first official home match made the moment even more special, calling it an important goal and three important points.
Guimaraes has had to wait for starts following his summer arrival, but made clear he intends to increase the pressure on Arteta’s selection decisions.
“It is important to give my best and give the manager a little headache,” he said. “I am happy to score my first goal here.”
The former Newcastle midfielder also praised Leeds, describing the contest as tough and noting the challenge posed by their quality. He said he had already proved himself during five years in the Premier League, while accepting that Arsenal represents a fresh challenge.
Champions League comes next
Guimaraes has now made seven appearances in all competitions for Arsenal. His first goal for the club came in September’s 2-0 victory over Sunderland.
Arsenal now switch attention to Europe, with Lille due at the Emirates in the Champions League on Tuesday. Their next league assignment is away to Nottingham Forest on Sunday, October 18.
