LONDON, 19 October, 2026 (Kamran Raja): Arsenal secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Nottingham Forest on Sunday, scoring late in the match to maintain pressure on Premier League leaders Manchester City. The Gunners entered the fixture a day after City recorded their seventh consecutive home victory against Ipswich Town, strengthening their position at the top of the table despite the fallout from the club’s guilty verdict over serious financial irregularities. Arsenal struggled to break down Nottingham Forest’s defence and found it difficult to create clear scoring opportunities against Oliver Glasner’s side. However, substitute Noni Madueke finally broke the deadlock in the 80th minute when his effort deflected off Forest defender Jair Cunha and found the back of the net. The goal proved decisive, despite being Arsenal’s only shot on target throughout the match. Nottingham Forest nearly snatched a dramatic equaliser in stoppage time when defender Murillo skilfully worked his way into the penalty area, but Arsenal managed to hold on to their narrow lead and claim all three points. The victory moved Arsenal to within three points of Manchester City in the Premier League standings, keeping the title race firmly alive. Speaking to Sky Sports after the match, Madueke praised the team’s collective effort, determination and fighting spirit, saying the players had demonstrated the mentality of champions. Meanwhile, Manchester United dropped further points after being held to a draw by Leeds United, adding to the pressure on the struggling side as the Premier League campaign continues.