Saka inspires Arsenal’s gritty win over Fulham to extend historic home streak

Arsenal superstar Bukayo Saka electrified fans by scoring moments after returning from injury, sealing a 2-1 victory over Fulham at Emirates Stadium. The triumph extended Arsenal’s 120-year unbeaten home run against Fulham to 32 matches while boosting their Premier League title hopes.

Saka, sidelined for three months, entered as a second-half substitute and scored within seven minutes. The 23-year-old headed home decisively after Mikel Merino and Gabriel Martinelli combined to carve open Fulham’s defense. His clinical finish doubled Arsenal’s lead following Merino’s deflected first-half strike, showcasing his immediate impact despite a 19-game absence.

Meanwhile, Arsenal’s dominance over Fulham reached new heights, cementing the longest unbeaten home streak against a single opponent in English football history. Since 1904, the Gunners have claimed 25 wins and seven draws across 32 meetings, a testament to their relentless home prowess.

However, the victory came at a cost as defender Gabriel Magalhaes suffered a first-half hamstring injury while tracking an opponent. The Brazilian’s early exit forced Jurrien Timber into action, sparking concerns about Arsenal’s defensive depth for the season’s decisive fixtures. Medical staff are assessing the severity, with updates expected soon.

Fulham threatened a late comeback when Rodrigo Muniz struck in stoppage time, but Arsenal’s defense held firm. The visitors’ consolation goal underscored the hosts’ need for vigilance despite their historical edge.

Currently, Arsenal sit second in the Premier League with 61 points, trailing leaders Liverpool by nine. Liverpool face Everton next, aiming to widen the gap, while Arsenal must capitalize on remaining matches to maintain pressure.

Critically, Saka’s return injects fresh momentum into Mikel Arteta’s squad as they chase silverware. His match-winning cameo silenced doubts about his fitness, proving his readiness for pivotal fixtures ahead.

As Arsenal fans celebrate their enduring home legacy against Fulham, attention shifts to Gabriel’s recovery and the title race’s twists. With Saka back and resilience intact, the Gunners remain poised to challenge rivals until the season’s climax.