The match, which was originally slated to begin at 12:33 p.m., was later postponed until 1:00 p.m. Arsenal pressed Nottingham Forest early on, forcing them to play conservatively with limited possession.
After first-half goals by Eddie Nketiah (26th minute) and Bukayo Saka (32nd minute), Arsenal seemed to be cruising, unconcerned by a weak Nottingham Forest onslaught.
However, Forest substitutes Taiwo Awoniyi and Anthony Elanga combined to score a late goal for the visitors within the final 10 minutes, making for a tense finish for the Gunners, who are expected to compete for the league title again this season.
However, the game may have taken an unexpected turn had Forest’s Brennan Johnson converted a one-on-one opportunity against Arsenal goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale prior to Arsenal’s two goals.
With the win, Arsenal keeps pace with three-time reigning champions Manchester City, who won their opening the day before at Burnley. Arsenal will travel to Crystal Palace on Monday, August 21, while Nottingham Forest will host Sheffield United on Friday, August 18.
