BBC Sport reported on Sunday, October 18, 2026, that Arsenal defeated Nottingham Forest 1-0 in a competitive Premier League fixture, thanks to Noni Madueke’s decisive goal in the closing stages. The winger’s late strike separated the teams after neither side managed to score in the first half.

The Gunners controlled possession during the opening 45 minutes but failed to make their superiority count. Kai Havertz squandered two good opportunities, while Forest’s disciplined back line successfully dealt with Bukayo Saka’s dangerous deliveries and forward runs.

Nottingham Forest also posed a threat, as Dan Ndoye missed the target and Xaver Schlager forced David Raya into action before half-time. Raya remained composed throughout the opening period, helping Arsenal keep a clean sheet heading into the break.

The match became more intense in the second half, with both teams pushing for a breakthrough. James McAtee’s free-kick narrowly missed the target, while Raya made an outstanding save to keep out Murillo’s header from a corner. Madueke was shown a yellow card in the 53rd minute as the contest continued to unfold.

Forest maintained their attacking pressure, but Arsenal also created several promising chances. In the 72nd minute, Rice came close to scoring after receiving a pass from Jurriën Timber, only to fire narrowly over the crossbar. Saka subsequently tested Matz Sels with an effort from outside the penalty area.

The breakthrough finally arrived in the 80th minute when Rice set up Madueke near the edge of the box. The Arsenal winger fired towards goal, and his shot took a deflection that left Sels unable to stop it from crossing the line.

Arsenal nearly extended their lead moments later when Mikel Merino had an attempt blocked. Nottingham Forest refused to give up and came close to equalising in the 89th minute through Chris Wood, but a vital goal-line clearance denied the hosts.

Forest continued to search for a late goal, but Arsenal’s defence held firm until the final whistle. Madueke’s second-half strike ultimately secured a hard-earned victory and all three points for Mikel Arteta’s side.