Declan Rice showcased his scoring prowess with a double as Arsenal overturned a deficit to defeat Bournemouth, solidifying their position at the summit of the Premier League standings.

In an early setback for the Gunners, center-back Gabriel inadvertently set up Evanilson for Bournemouth’s first goal with a misguided pass. However, Gabriel redeemed himself by netting the equalizer, capitalizing on a blocked attempt from Gabriel Martinelli.

Bournemouth strike first, Arsenal respond

Bournemouth posed a threat to retake the lead, but Rice’s precision shot from just outside the box, courtesy of a Martin Ødegaard assist, nudged Arsenal ahead.

The England international, making a return from a knee injury, struck once more by finishing a well-timed pass from substitute Bukayo Saka.

Although Bournemouth’s teenage talent Eli Junior Kroupi briefly rekindled their ambitions with a stunning long-range goal, the home side struggled to level the score.

Arteta rotation pays off

The victory moves Mikel Arteta’s side six points clear of second-placed Aston Villa, with Manchester City able to reduce the gap when they host Chelsea.

Arsenal have now won five consecutive league games, entering the second half of the season with momentum.

Arteta rotated his squad, leaving regular starters Leandro Trossard and Saka on the bench, and prioritised results over fluency as Arsenal continue their push for a first league title since 2003/04.

Errors, recovery, and control

Arsenal were far from their best in the opening period, with Gabriel committing his first error leading to a league goal since February 2023. However, his equaliser and improved second-half control stabilised the contest.

Rice’s second goal, his first Premier League brace in 296 appearances, followed shortly after Saka’s introduction as part of a triple substitution.

Bournemouth struggles continue

Bournemouth’s downturn deepened to 11 games without a win, their worst run in a top-flight season.

They remain 15th, nine points above the relegation zone, despite producing competitive performances and outshooting Arsenal 14–11.

Frustration was evident at full-time as the final whistle was blown with Bournemouth attacking.

While Antoine Semenyo was subdued amid speculation of a move to Manchester City, teenager Kroupi continues to impress, now the league’s top-scoring teenager with six goals this season.