On December 27, in a thrilling encounter at the Emirates Stadium, Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard netted his inaugural goal of the season, leading his team to a 2-1 victory against Brighton. This win pushed the Gunners back to the summit of the Premier League standings in London.

Odegaard struck from just outside the box before Georgino Rutter inadvertently directed a Declan Rice corner into his own net, extending Arsenal's lead. However, Brighton responded with a goal from Diego Gomez in the 64th minute, leveling the score momentarily. A sensational save from David Raya denied Yankuba Minteh, securing all three points for Arsenal, bringing their tally to 42 points from 18 matches while maintaining a two-point lead over Manchester City.

In this pivotal match, Arsenal quickly sought to capitalize on their opportunities. Within two minutes, Leandro Trossard's long ball found Viktor Gyokeres, who outmuscled Brighton's captain Lewis Dunk, only to miss the target.

The Brighton goalkeeper was kept busy early on, thwarting an attempt from Bukayo Saka as he surged past Maxim De Cuyper.

Arsenal made their mark just 14 minutes in, with a brilliant finish from Odegaard. After a quick pass from Saka, Odegaard found space on the edge of the box and fired a powerful shot low into the corner, marking his first goal since last season's finale against Southampton.

Brighton struggled to break free from Arsenal's pressure as the Gunners continued to create chances. Several attempts went wide, and at halftime, Arsenal led 1-0 after recording 15 shots.

Shortly after the break, Arsenal doubled their lead when Trossard's pass found Odegaard, whose corner led to Rutter's unfortunate own goal.

Despite their dominance, Arsenal conceded in the 64th minute when Gomez capitalized on a rebound from Yasin Ayari's shot that hit the post, leveling the match momentarily.

Brighton sought an equalizer, generating pressure, but Arsenal's defense held firm, aided by the return of Gabriel Magalhaes, recovering from injury.

Former Gunner Danny Welbeck came on, adding to Brighton's attack, but it was Raya's brilliance that kept Arsenal ahead.

As Brighton pressed for a goal, the game opened up, allowing Arsenal a chance to seal the win. Saka's run and pass found Gabriel Martinelli, but he failed to convert from a close range.

Next up, Arsenal will face Aston Villa on December 30 in their final match of this season.