Arsenal pass Chelsea test in style with comeback win

LONDON, Sept 6 : Arsenal passed their biggest test so far in the defence of their Premier League title in style as they hit back from conceding inside two minutes to beat Chelsea 2-1 with captain Martin Odegaard scoring the winner on Sunday.

Morgan Rogers volleyed the visitors ahead after 77 seconds but Arsenal's response was emphatic with Kai Havertz equalising after 25 minutes and Odegaard finishing off a flowing move shortly after the break.

Chelsea were always a threat in an absorbing, high-octane duel and substitute Estevao was denied a late equaliser by a superb save from David Raya.

Victory left Arsenal level at the top with Manchester City with both sides on a maximum nine points after three games. Chelsea's first dropped points left them on six.

Chelsea's free-scoring start to the season under new manager Xabi Alonso had marked them out as potential title rivals to Arsenal and that still might well be the case.

But on Sunday, despite a dream start, they were overpowered by their London rivals, who were clearly seeking to make a statement, and could have few complaints as their winless run against Arsenal stretched to 12 in all competitions.

"It was a big game, massive game, tough opponent and we got there in the end so brilliant," Odegaard said.

"Our mentality is to keep fighting. We have shown that many times. We never want to concede early but the reaction is top."

Chelsea spent an extraordinary summer making 11 signings for a total of £349 million and selling 17 players as part of yet another rebuild under yet another manager.

Arsenal's close-season, on the other hand, was one of stability and Mikel Arteta's side have quickly found the rhythm and efficiency that took them to their first title in 22 years.

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