According to a report by Flashscore on Sunday, October 18, 2026, Arsenal claimed a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Nottingham Forest, with Noni Madueke scoring the winning goal in the 80th minute after receiving a pass from Declan Rice. The Gunners had to withstand late pressure from their opponents before securing all three points.

Mikel Arteta’s side enjoyed the majority of possession but struggled to create clear-cut chances during the first half. Nottingham Forest remained competitive throughout the contest, while David Raya’s crucial saves and Arsenal’s defensive discipline helped prevent the hosts from finding the breakthrough.

Madueke’s introduction at half-time for Eberechi Eze provided Arsenal with a different attacking threat, and the winger eventually scored the decisive goal. Rice supplied the assist, while Arsenal survived several dangerous late attacks, including an effort from Chris Wood that was cleared off the goal line.

Five Arsenal players responsible for the narrow victory

1. Noni Madueke

Madueke proved to be Arsenal’s match-winner after replacing Eberechi Eze at half-time. In the 80th minute, he received a pass from Declan Rice before shooting towards goal from the edge of the penalty area. His effort took a deflection and beat Nottingham Forest goalkeeper Matz Sels, securing a valuable victory for the Gunners.

2. Declan Rice

Rice played a crucial role in Arsenal’s victory by providing the assist for Madueke’s decisive goal. He also delivered several corners and helped maintain the team’s attacking pressure. The midfielder nearly scored himself in the 72nd minute, but his effort from inside the penalty area sailed just over the crossbar.

3. David Raya

Raya made important contributions to Arsenal’s defensive performance, helping the team protect its narrow lead. He dealt with dangerous Nottingham Forest corner deliveries and saved an effort from Xaver Schlager in first-half stoppage time. His composure and command of the penalty area helped Arsenal withstand pressure from the hosts.

4. Gabriel Magalhães

Gabriel played an important role in Arsenal’s defensive resilience as Nottingham Forest searched for an equaliser. The defender also threatened from set pieces, getting on the end of corners in the 26th and 67th minutes. His second attempt resulted in a looping header that narrowly went over the crossbar.

5. Jurriën Timber

Timber came on in the 66th minute, replacing Ben White, and helped Arsenal maintain their defensive organisation during the closing stages. He also contributed to the attack by setting up Declan Rice for a promising opportunity in the 72nd minute, although the midfielder’s effort narrowly missed the target.