Arsenal maintained their perfect start to the season with two moments of brilliance from David Raya and Bruno Guimaraes that put them up for victory at Sunderland.
On 55 minutes, Gunners defender Ezri Konsa was penalized for taking down Dan Ballard in the box, but goalkeeper Raya saved Enzo le Fee’s penalty low to his left.
And its actual significance was not exposed until 121 seconds later, when midfielder Guimaraes, who had come on as a half-time substitute, brilliantly curled the opener off the bar from 20 yards out.
It was the summer signing’s first goal for Arsenal, and it was significant because it came against Sunderland, Newcastle United’s archrivals.
Bukayo Saka scored a penalty after being fouled by Reinildo Mandava, who received a second yellow card and was sent off, to seal the victory in the dying seconds.
Mikel Arteta’s team extended their unbeaten start to the season with six wins from six in all competitions, including four in the Premier League, to take the lead in the table.
Arsenal dominated control with 66% of the ball in the first half, but their chances were severely limited by Regis le Bris’ disciplined Sunderland team.
Their greatest chances before the break included a Kai Havertz shot from six yards that went wide, followed by a volley tipped over by home goalkeeper Robin Roefs shortly after.
Arsenal came close when Ballard wonderfully headed off the line to thwart Havertz, then Jurrien Timber scored but was called offside.
Sunderland has four points from as many league games, placing them 14th in the standings.
