Arsenal edge past Brentford in tight London derby

Gunners maintain six-point lead at the top of the Premier League table

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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Arsenal secured a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Brentford in a tense London derby at the Gtech Stadium. The Gunners took the lead through a first-half strike from Declan Rice, but the Bees equalized early in the second half through a goal from Igor Thiago. However, Arsenal regained the lead late on and held on for all three points, maintaining their six-point advantage at the top of the Premier League table.

Why it matters

This was a crucial win for Arsenal in their pursuit of the Premier League title. Brentford have been one of the surprise packages this season and proved a tough test for the league leaders. The Gunners showed their resilience to bounce back from the equalizer and secure all three points, demonstrating their ability to grind out results against tough opponents.

The details

Arsenal took the lead in the 35th minute when Declan Rice scored from a set-piece. Brentford equalized early in the second half through a goal from Igor Thiago, but Arsenal regained the lead in the 78th minute with a strike from Viktor Gyokeres. The Gunners held on to the lead despite late pressure from the home side to secure a vital three points.

  • The match kicked off at 8:00 pm GMT on Thursday, February 12, 2026.
  • Declan Rice scored the opening goal for Arsenal in the 35th minute.
  • Igor Thiago equalized for Brentford in the 52nd minute.
  • Viktor Gyokeres scored the winning goal for Arsenal in the 78th minute.
  • The match ended with a final score of Brentford 1-2 Arsenal.

The players

Declan Rice

The Arsenal midfielder scored the opening goal for the Gunners in the first half.

Igor Thiago

The Brentford forward scored the equalizing goal for the home side in the second half.

Viktor Gyokeres

The Arsenal striker scored the winning goal for the Gunners in the 78th minute.

Keith Andrews

The Brentford manager, who has guided his team to an unlikely European challenge this season.

Mikel Arteta

The Arsenal manager, who is leading his team's charge for the Premier League title.

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What they’re saying

“We knew it was going to be a tough game against a very good Brentford side, but the lads showed great character to come back and get the win.”

— Mikel Arteta, Arsenal Manager (Arsenal.com)

“We gave it our all, but ultimately Arsenal's quality showed in the end. We can be proud of our performance, but disappointed not to get anything from the game.”

— Keith Andrews, Brentford Manager (Brentford.co.uk)

What’s next

Arsenal will look to build on this win as they continue their push for the Premier League title, while Brentford will aim to bounce back in their next match.

The takeaway

This hard-fought victory for Arsenal demonstrates their ability to grind out results against tough opponents, even when facing a spirited challenge from an in-form Brentford side. The Gunners' resilience and quality proved decisive in the end, as they maintained their six-point lead at the top of the table.