Arsenal edge past Leeds 2-1 to draw level with Manchester City

After falling behind Leeds at the Emirates, Arsenal turned the match around in the second half to win 2-1

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Arsenal edge past Leeds 2-1 to draw level with Manchester City

10.10.26 FT English Premier League

Arsenal

Leeds

Arsenal had to work hard to beat Leeds 2-1 and provisionally draw level with Manchester City at the top of the Premier League.

Arsenal were given a scare but secured the essentials. Facing Leeds United at the Emirates Stadium in the opening match of matchday 6 in the Premier League, the Gunners won 2-1 after falling behind.

Second before kick-off, Arsenal had to win to stay in touch with Manchester City. The Londoners nevertheless endured a difficult first half against a well-organised Leeds side. Kai Havertz had a chance in the 21st minute, but could not help his team make the difference before the break.

WE DON’T BACK DOWN. https://t.co/I3pP5eAVZs
— Arsenal (@Arsenal) October 10, 2026

Leeds strike first

After the break, Arsenal tried to step up the tempo, notably through Martin Ødegaard, but Trafford kept them out in the 51st minute. Four minutes later, Leeds punished the Gunners. After Gabriel Gudmundsson’s work down the left, James Justin met the ball to beat David Raya and open the scoring in the 55th minute.

The London side’s response was swift. Riccardo Calafiori equalised in the 62nd minute, before Bruno Guimarães put Arsenal ahead eight minutes later. The quick turnaround allowed the Gunners to regain control of the match.

Arsenal draw level with Manchester City

This victory allows Arsenal to bounce back after the heavy defeat suffered against Brighton (3-0) before the international break. With 15 points, the Gunners provisionally draw level with Manchester City at the top of the table, ahead of the Citizens’ clash with Liverpool this Sunday.

Leeds, meanwhile, suffered their first league defeat of the season and saw their run of five matches without a loss come to an end. The club nevertheless remain fifth after matchday 6.