Arsenal fell into successive London derby defeats

London, England – Arsenal’s struggles continued as they suffered a disappointing 2-1 defeat to Fulham at Craven Cottage, extending their losing streak in London derbies to two matches. Despite taking an early lead through Bukayo Saka, the Gunners were undone by goals from Raul Jimenez and Bobby De Cordova-Reid, handing Fulham their third Premier League win over Arsenal.

 

The match started brightly for Arsenal as they seized the initiative from the off. Bukayo Saka, in scintillating form, put the visitors ahead within four minutes, pouncing on a loose ball inside the six-yard box after Bernd Leno had denied Gabriel Martinelli’s initial effort. However, Fulham responded resiliently, gradually gaining a foothold in the game and creating chances of their own.

 

The Cottagers’ persistence paid off in the 28th minute when Raul Jimenez leveled the scores. Calvin Bassey dispossessed Saka and Willian found Tom Cairney, whose perfectly weighted cross found Jimenez, who slotted home effortlessly. The Mexican striker has now scored four goals in his last four league appearances.

 

Arsenal regained momentum towards the end of the first half but failed to capitalize on their opportunities. Declan Rice and Martin Ødegaard combined to create a chance for Martinelli, but his shot narrowly missed the target.

 

In the second half, Fulham continued to pose a threat, and they eventually completed the comeback just before the hour mark. Willian swung a corner towards the back post, and De Cordova-Reid was on hand to prod the ball home from close range.

 

The heavens opened in West London, and the torrential rain disrupted the flow of the game for a while. Arsenal struggled to find their rhythm, and despite creating a few chances, they lacked the cutting edge to break down a resolute Fulham defense.

 

Andreas Pereira rattled the crossbar with a free-kick in the dying minutes, but it was too little too late for Arsenal, who were left to rue their missed opportunities.

 

The defeat leaves Arsenal languishing in the top half of the Premier League table, while Fulham moved up to seventh place. Arsenal will aim to bounce back when they host Liverpool in the FA Cup third round on Sunday, January 7, before facing Crystal Palace at home in the league on Saturday, January 20.