Arsenal win at Sunderland to maintain 100% start

Arsenal maintained their perfect start to the season with a 2-0 victory over Sunderland, with goalkeeper David Raya and midfielder Bruno Guimaraes playing decisive roles in the win, according to the BBC.

Raya produced a crucial save in the 55th minute to deny Enzo Le Fee from the penalty spot, after Ezri Konsa was penalised for bringing down Dan Ballard. Just 121 seconds later, Guimaraes, introduced at half-time, opened the scoring with a superb 20-yard strike that curled in off the crossbar. It was his first goal for Arsenal, and came fittingly against Sunderland, rivals of his former club Newcastle United.

Bukayo Saka then sealed the victory in the closing seconds, converting a penalty after being fouled by Reinildo Mandava, who was sent off after receiving a second yellow card.

The result extended Arsenal’s winning run to six games in all competitions, including four consecutive Premier League victories, keeping Mikel Arteta’s side top of the table. Sunderland, despite a disciplined performance, remain 14th with four points from four league matches. The defeat also extended their poor record against Arsenal to just one victory in 30 Premier League meetings and 18 games without a win.

Arsenal dominated possession but struggled to create clear chances before the break. Kai Havertz came closest, while Sunderland goalkeeper Robin Roefs made several important saves to keep his side in contention.

Raya’s performance earned him his fifth clean sheet in six games, underlining Arsenal’s defensive strength as they continue their impressive start to the campaign.