London (AFP) - Bukayo Saka led his team, defending champion Arsenal, to a second victory and the top spot in the English Premier League, by scoring the only goal against host Aston Villa in the second stage.

Published on: 08/31/2026 - 23:07

Saka scored in the 59th minute from close range, taking advantage of Italian Riccardo Calafiore's cross.

Spanish coach Mikel Arteta's team sent an early message to its title rivals, after achieving the full score in the first two matches without conceding a single goal.

The match was also an ideal occasion for Arteta to celebrate playing his 250th match in the league as head of the Gunners’ technical staff.

Arsenal will face the first real test of its ability to retain the title next Sunday when it hosts its London rival Chelsea, which also won its first two matches this season.

It is noteworthy that Arsenal shares the lead with two other teams other than Chelsea as well, namely Manchester City and Hull City.

Despite the victory, Arsenal's joy was spoiled when international midfielder Declan Rice limped off in the 85th minute.

As for Aston Villa, their feelings of frustration are increasing after suffering their second defeat in a row.

Spanish coach Unai Emery's team started the season with a harsh loss to Brighton 0-4, amid a massive selling campaign that the club witnessed during the summer.

Senegalese Nicholas Jackson played his first match with Aston Villa after joining from Chelsea to compensate for the departure of Ollie Watkins to Al Hilal Saudi Arabia, while Japanese goalkeeper Zion Suzuki, who recently arrived from Italian club Parma, also made his first appearance.

© 2026 AFP

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