Arsenal secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Brighton at the Amex Stadium, moving seven points clear at the top of the Premier League table. Bukayo Saka's deflected eighth-minute strike proved decisive, wrong-footing Brighton goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen after taking a touch off Carlos Baleba. The goal came from one of only two shots on target for Mikel Arteta's side.

While Brighton dominated possession with 60 percent of the ball, Arsenal's defense, marshaled by Gabriel and Piero Hincapie without injured William Saliba, stood firm. Brighton's best early chance came when David Raya's pass to Baleba was nearly converted, requiring Gabriel to clear off the line. The Seagulls mustered just three shots on target despite their territorial advantage.

Arsenal substitute Kai Havertz nearly doubled the lead with a saved diagonal effort, but the Gunners survived a nervy finale to hold on. The final whistle sparked wild celebrations among traveling fans, particularly after learning of Manchester City's 2-2 draw with Nottingham Forest. This result gives Arsenal a seven-point cushion, though they've played one more game than their title rivals.