Arsenal delivered a commanding first-half display against Fulham, controlling possession and creating numerous chances in a match where they led 3–0 at the break. Mikel Arteta’s side dominated the tempo with 65% possession, using quick passing combinations and intelligent movement to stretch Fulham’s defensive block.
The breakthrough came after Bukayo Saka set up Viktor Gyökeres for a composed finish inside the box. Arsenal continued to pile pressure, with Riccardo Calafiori adding a second goal via a well-timed header from a Leandro Trossard cross. Saka later doubled his influence by finishing clinically to extend the lead. In stoppage time, Gyökeres added a third goal to complete the rout.
Despite the scoreline, Arsenal’s first half also featured several wasted opportunities that prevented an even earlier blowout.
Five Underperforming or Wasteful Arsenal Players in the First Half
Bukayo Saka
Although he contributed a goal and assist, Saka also missed a major chance from close range in the six-yard box, firing narrowly wide. His inconsistency in front of goal momentarily slowed Arsenal’s attacking momentum.
Viktor Gyökeres
Gyökeres scored and assisted but was also guilty of multiple wasted opportunities, including a powerful shot saved by Bernd Leno and a poorly timed run flagged offside. His finishing was mixed despite the goal tally.
Leandro Trossard
Trossard contributed to the second goal but missed a clear chance earlier, slicing a shot wide from a promising position on the edge of the box. His decision-making in key moments lacked precision.
Declan Rice
Rice controlled midfield well but was slightly loose in discipline, committing an unnecessary foul and failing to deliver effectively from set-piece situations in the first half.
Eberechi Eze
Eze showed attacking intent but failed to convert a good late chance, curling a shot narrowly wide. His impact remained limited compared to Arsenal’s more decisive attackers.
Source: Flashscore
