In an action-packed Premier League match during week 6, Arsenal secured a 4-2 victory over Leicester City at the Emirates Stadium. The Gunners were dominant from the start, with a remarkable 34 shots compared to Leicester’s 5, reflecting the home side’s attacking intent. Leicester City, however, made the most of their limited chances, scoring twice despite an expected goals (xG) tally of only 0.33. Arsenal’s overwhelming firepower, paired with a tactical mastery in possession, saw them reach an xG of 5.86, showcasing their clinical and creative play in the final third.
Match Momentum
The momentum graph indicates Arsenal’s sustained pressure throughout the match, with a few bursts of possession and chances for Leicester, particularly in the second half. Arsenal’s dominance in possession and shots translated into a steady increase in their xG, while Leicester managed to grab goals at critical moments despite being on the back foot for much of the game. The introduction of key substitutes for Arsenal, including Trossard, contributed to their surge in momentum, ultimately sealing the victory.
Shot and Goal Analysis
Arsenal’s shot map reflects a concentrated assault inside the box, with high-value chances primarily coming from the left side and central areas. Bukayo Saka, Leandro Trossard, and Gabriel Martinelli were crucial in stretching Leicester’s defense, leading to high xG chances, as seen with Saka’s xG contribution of 1.32 and Martinelli’s 0.94.
Leicester, despite being limited in their opportunities, was clinical when they arrived in the box. Both of their goals were taken from prime locations in the box, with an xG of 0.06 and 0.11, respectively, showing their efficiency in front of goal. Wilfred Ndidi and James Justin managed to score with limited chances, capitalizing on Arsenal’s brief defensive lapses.
Possession Tactics and Pass Map
Arsenal’s pass map shows a well-connected midfield triangle, with Declan Rice and Kai Havertz controlling the tempo and Thomas Partey supporting from deeper positions. Their possession-based approach kept Leicester chasing for large portions of the game, reflected by their 73% possession dominance. Gabriel Magalhães and William Saliba were instrumental in recycling the ball and building from the back, while Ben White and Timber provided attacking support down the flanks.
Leicester, on the other hand, struggled to maintain possession, as reflected in their pass map. They primarily relied on quick transitions through Wilfred Ndidi and Harry Winks to feed Jamie Vardy and Stephy Mavididi, but Arsenal’s compact midfield and aggressive pressing forced them to play long balls, limiting their ability to build sustained attacks.
This was a classic Arsenal display of tactical control and attacking creativity, while Leicester demonstrated resilience and clinical finishing on the break. Mikel Arteta’s side continues to show they can dominate possession and create high-quality chances, while Leicester will take heart from their efficiency in front of goal despite the loss. With this win, Arsenal solidified their place in the top four, while Leicester will be keen to bounce back with a stronger defensive showing next week.