Arsenal’s Dominant 3-0 Victory Over Nottingham Forest: Zubimendi Shines in Premier League Clash
In the electrifying atmosphere of the Emirates Stadium, Arsenal delivered a commanding performance, securing a 3-0 win over Nottingham Forest in their Premier League fixture on September 13, 2025. This result, a masterclass in control and clinical finishing, propelled the Gunners to the top of the table after four games, showcasing the seamless integration of summer signings and Mikel Arteta’s tactical blueprint. For Nottingham Forest, under new manager Ange Postecoglou in his debut match, it was a harsh welcome back to the Premier League, marked by defensive frailties and an inability to counter Arsenal’s relentless press.
The game kicked off with Arsenal asserting early dominance, their high-energy buildup play setting the tone against a Forest side still adjusting to Postecoglou’s aggressive philosophy. The breakthrough arrived in the 31st minute, courtesy of a stunning volley from Martín Zubimendi, Arsenal’s recent acquisition from Real Sociedad. From a corner delivered by Noni Madueke, Chris Wood’s headed clearance fell invitingly to Zubimendi on the edge of the box. The Spaniard unleashed a thunderous right-footed strike that swerved past goalkeeper Matz Sels, possibly aided by a slight deflection off Elliot Anderson, but it was a moment of pure class that ignited the home crowd. Zubimendi’s first goal for the club not only silenced doubters but highlighted his growing influence in midfield, where he partnered seamlessly with Mikel Merino and Martin Ødegaard—the trio reuniting for the first time since their Real Sociedad days.
Nottingham Forest, disrupted by a chaotic week of transition following Nuno Espírito Santo’s dismissal, struggled to find rhythm. Postecoglou’s high line invited pressure, and Arsenal’s forwards, led by the electric duo of Madueke and Eberechi Eze—both making impactful starts post-transfer—exploited spaces relentlessly. Madueke, in particular, terrorized the left flank, his skill and unpredictability earning high praise from Arteta, who noted the winger’s ability to “create chaos” in tight areas. Eze, on his full debut, added flair with precise crosses and vision, though it was his interplay with Viktor Gyökeres that proved decisive early in the second half.
Just 42 seconds after the restart, Arsenal doubled their advantage in a move that epitomized their transitional threat. Riccardo Calafiori launched a long ball forward, which Eze cushioned perfectly with his left foot across goal for Gyökeres to tap in unmarked. The Swedish striker, another summer coup for the Gunners, celebrated his second goal in as many home games, joining an elite list that includes Marouane Chamakh and Alexandre Lacazette. This rapid response quelled any hopes of a Forest comeback, with the visitors’ attacks, spearheaded by Chris Wood and Noni Madueke’s counterpart on the right, lacking penetration against Arsenal’s solid out-of-possession shape.
As the match wore on, Arsenal managed the game with composure, resting key midfielder Declan Rice on the bench—his introduction later serving to see out the victory amid England’s international fatigue. The insurance goal arrived in the 78th minute, again from Zubimendi, who rose highest to head home Leandro Trossard’s clipped cross after replacing Madueke. The diminutive midfielder’s timing was impeccable, nodding the ball into the top corner to cap a man-of-the-match display and ensure David Raya’s 100th appearance ended with a clean sheet—his 42nd in the Premier League since debuting in 2023.
Post-match, Arteta lauded his side’s preparation despite the international break’s disruptions, emphasizing the “masterclass in buildup play” and the contributions from new faces like Calafiori, whose free role added dynamism. Fans, reveling in the three points, couldn’t resist a cheeky taunt toward the away dugout, chanting “Are you Tottenham in disguise?”—a nod to Postecoglou’s ill-fated Spurs tenure that ended abruptly 95 days prior. For Forest, the defeat underscored the challenges ahead, with Postecoglou promising a “quick response” to implement his attacking ethos amid a squad in flux.
This victory extends Arsenal’s strong record against Nottingham Forest, unbeaten in their last five Premier League encounters since a 1-0 loss in May 2023. It positions the Gunners perfectly for midweek Champions League action against Athletic Club, followed by a blockbuster clash with Manchester City on September 21. In a season of title aspirations, Arsenal’s blend of youth, experience, and summer reinforcements signals a team ready to end their runner-up curse and claim long-awaited silverware.
