According to a report by BBC Sport on Sunday October 18, 2026, Arsenal secured a hard-fought 1-0 Premier League victory over Nottingham Forest after a goalless first half, with Noni Madueke scoring the decisive goal in the closing stages to settle a competitive encounter.

The visitors dominated possession but struggled to convert their control into goals before the interval. Kai Havertz missed two promising opportunities, while Bukayo Saka’s crosses and attacking runs were repeatedly dealt with by Forest’s organised defence.

Nottingham also threatened occasionally, with Dan Ndoye sending an effort wide and Xaver Schlager testing David Raya before halftime. Arsenal’s goalkeeper remained alert, helping the visitors reach the break without conceding.

The second half brought greater urgency from both teams. James McAtee sent a free-kick narrowly over, while Murillo’s header from a corner was brilliantly saved by Raya. Arsenal also received a yellow card for Madueke in the 53rd minute.

Forest continued searching for an opener, but Arsenal created opportunities of their own. Declan Rice came close in the 72nd minute, firing just over after receiving a pass from Jurrien Timber. Saka also tested Matz Sels with a mid-range effort.

Arsenal finally broke the deadlock in the 80th minute. Rice supplied Madueke, who struck from the edge of the penalty area. The effort took a deflection, leaving Sels unable to prevent the ball entering the net.

Mikel Merino nearly added another shortly afterwards, but his attempt was blocked. Nottingham pushed desperately for an equaliser, and Chris Wood came agonisingly close in the 89th minute before an Arsenal defender produced a crucial goal-line clearance.

The hosts could not find a breakthrough during the remaining minutes, allowing Arsenal to protect their narrow advantage. Madueke’s late strike proved decisive, securing three valuable points after a difficult contest at Nottingham.