Reiss Nelson’s early goal helped Arsenal secure a fourth round slot in the Carabao Cup beating Brentford 1-0 at home.
Nelson took advantage of a carelessly place pass by Brantford’s defender Zanka to get one past the goal keep in a cool fashion just eight minutes in to the game to get the early lead for the gunners.
Brentfort grappled with their initial lethargy and came close to conceding another goal when Emile Smith Rowe, in his first start after 16 months, surged into the box after a passing exchange with Jorginho.
He unleashed a low shot that Mark Flekken saved skillfully.
Despite Arsenal’s continued dominance of possession, Brentford had a golden opportunity to equalize when Christian Norgaard found Wissa at the center of the Arsenal box.
However, the striker’s hasty first-time effort went well wide.
Arsenal occasionally posed a threat for a second goal. Nelson narrowly missed the target with a low shot from a Kai Havertz pass, and Eddie Nketiah had his angled shot blocked by Flekken.
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However, the visitors primarily assumed defensive duties in the final stages.. Ramsdale made another impressive save to deny Frank Onyeka’s long-range attempt, and Kiwior crucially blocked Lewis-Potter’s shot.
Brentford manager Thomas Frank however saw plenty of positives from his boys performance despite the loss.
“I hate losing, so it’s always tough to take. But I’m very pleased and happy with the performance and that is the most important thing, the thing we can build on. he said
After the win Arsenal’s next assignment will on the 31st October against West Ham in the fourth Round of the EFL.
