Arsenal league lead grows to nine points after a dominant 3–0 win over Sunderland at the Emirates Stadium

Arsenal strengthened their Arsenal league lead with a commanding 3–0 victory over Sunderland at the Emirates Stadium on Saturday.

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Martin Zubimendi broke the deadlock moments before half-time with a precise strike from outside the area that clipped the post on its way in, calming nerves after a tentative opening period in which goalkeeper David Raya appeared unsettled.

Sunderland resumed brightly after the interval and pressed for an equaliser, but Arsenal doubled their advantage in the 66th minute.

Substitute Viktor Gyokeres finished with composure shortly after entering the match to make it 2–0.

Arsenal then dictated the tempo and sealed the result deep into stoppage time. Gyokeres struck again in the 93rd minute after a neat assist from Gabriel Martinelli, completing his first brace in successive Premier League matches.

The result moves Mikel Arteta’s side nine points clear at the summit of the table.

Earlier in the day, Aston Villa dropped points away at Bournemouth, a development that further strengthened Arsenal’s position.

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Manchester City have an opportunity to narrow the gap on Sunday but face a difficult trip to Liverpool, where the defending champions have won only once in their last 22 Premier League visits.