Arsenal's win at Forest: 5 things we learnt including Super Eagles' Awoniyi return

Premier League title contenders Arsenal sealed back-to-back wins after a compelling 2-1 victory over Nottingham Forest.

The win delivered a flurry of noteworthy moments, with Gabriel Jesus and Bukayo Saka starring. Here are five (5) key lessons learnt from the intriguing clash. 

Brazilian forward Jesus and his English counterpart, Saka, were the heroes for Mikel Arteta’s men at the City Ground.

Both forwards netted the goals for the Gunners, with the Samba Boy setting up Anglo-Nigerian, Saka, for the winner. 

Their remarkable connection not only secured the much-needed win but also showed the potent attacking force Arsenal can be on their day.

Despite expectedly dominating possession, the title contenders, Arsenal, faced several challenges in the opening 45 minutes. 

The Gunners found the Reds a difficult nut to crack as they struggled to find a way to breach what looked like a well-oiled defence.

Forest’s super-sub, Taiwo Awoniyi, made his much-awaited return from injury against the Gunners. 

Making a return from a groin injury that ruled him out of the AFCON 2023 and football since November last year, Awoniyi made a significant contribution after he replaced Christ Wood.

The 26-year-old pulled a goal back for Forest in the 89th minute, with his goal injecting late drama into the match, setting up a tense finish at the City Ground.

Arsenal’s main man, Saka’s clinical finished against the Reds marked a milestone in his burgeoning career.

He became the first player to net 10 goals and provide 10 assists or more for the Gunners in consecutive seasons.

Saka’s consistency could prove decisive for the Gunners and manager, Arteta, in their bid to end the long wait for a Premier League title.

Nottingham Forest continued their woes at home with the latest defeat to Arteta’s Arsenal.

The defeat on Tuesday night was the fifth for the Reds in the last six matches, leaving them in a precarious position - just two points above relegation.

Forest’s current form is the sharp opposite of their earlier return to the Premier League, but coach Nuno Espirito Santo would hope the successful return of Nigeria’s Awoniyi could be the real turning point for his team.