According to a report by BBC Sport on Sunday October 18, 2026, Arsenal secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Nottingham Forest in the Premier League, with Noni Madueke scoring late to deliver three valuable points after a goalless opening half.

The Gunners controlled possession during the first period but struggled to convert their dominance into goals. Bukayo Saka created opportunities, while Kai Havertz came close, firing narrowly wide from inside the penalty area.

Nottingham threatened through counterattacks and set pieces, with Dan Ndoye sending an effort wide after Liam Delap’s pass. David Raya remained alert, while Xaver Schlager tested the goalkeeper shortly before halftime.

Forest increased their pressure after the restart, forcing Arsenal to defend several dangerous situations. Murillo’s header from a corner was brilliantly saved by Raya, while Delap saw another attempt blocked inside the penalty area.

Mikel Arteta introduced Noni Madueke, Viktor Gyokeres, Jurrien Timber and Mikel Merino to strengthen Arsenal’s attacking threat. Declan Rice nearly broke the deadlock before Madueke finally found the breakthrough.

In the 80th minute, Rice supplied Madueke, whose shot from the edge of the box took a deflection and beat Matz Sels, giving Arsenal the decisive advantage.

Nottingham pushed desperately for an equaliser during stoppage time. Chris Wood’s effort was cleared off the goal line, while Murillo shot narrowly wide and Liam Delap was denied by another crucial block.

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