Brighton produced a dominant performance to beat Premier League champions Arsenal 3-0 at the Amex Stadium on Saturday, handing Mikel Arteta’s side their first defeat of the 2026/27 season.
Arsenal were chasing an eighth consecutive victory to open the campaign and their best start to a season in 123 years, but Brighton delivered a commanding display from the opening minute.
Pascal Gross and Charalampos Kostoulas put Brighton in control with first-half goals from outside the penalty area before Chema Andrés sealed the victory with a header at the back post from Gross’ corner.
The result was particularly significant for Brighton manager Fabian Hürzeler, whose side had suffered a narrow home defeat against Arsenal last season.
Brighton have proved a difficult opponent for Arsenal in recent years. They were also the last side to beat the Gunners by three goals in all competitions, winning 3-0 at the Emirates Stadium in May 2023.
The victory capped an impressive week for Brighton, who beat Coventry 5-0 in the Premier League last weekend before coming from two goals down to defeat Manchester United 3-2 away in the League Cup during the week.
The win lifted Brighton to third in the Premier League table with 13 points, two behind Arsenal.
Arsenal remain second on 15 points, while Manchester City can move three points clear at the top if they beat Sunderland on Sunday.
City, who also won their opening four league matches, will now have the opportunity to take advantage of Arsenal’s setback before the international break.
