Arsenal fans have heaped praise on Martin Odegaard after the midfielder put in an impressive display in their 2-1 win over Brentford at the Emirates Stadium.
The hosts got off to a brilliant start and completely dominated the proceedings. They were well on top in the first half but couldn’t make their dominance count as the players failed to capitalize on the chances. A solid defensive performance helped the Bees to keep the scores level heading into the break.
However, it did not take long for Emile Smith Rowe to break the deadlock in the second half. He made an impressive solo run before curling the ball into the bottom corner. His fellow academy graduate, Bukayo Saka, doubled the advantage in the 79th minute with a venomous strike into the corner.
The visitors did pull one goal back in the stoppage time, but that was nothing more than a consolation. The Gunners held on to clinch all three points and make it three games unbeaten.
Although the Norwegian did not get on the scoresheet, he was the most influential player on the pitch for Arsenal. He occupied the right side of midfield. His slick passing and quick footwork caused all sorts of problems for the Brentford defense.
According to Whoscored, the playmaker had 88 touches and a passing accuracy of 89%. His wide passing range enabled the north Londoners to play expansive football. He was on top of his game for the entire duration of the game.
Odegaard’s fantastic display has drawn a lot of positive reactions from the fans on Twitter. Here are some of the best ones:
Today’s performance was nothing short of perfection without getting a G/A
— AFCJosh #EduOut (@afcj0shie) February 19, 2022
He’s a fabulous footballer …. controlled our midfield going forwards today and his defensive workrate is phenomenal
Not many players have a vision for the game as it unfolds. Ødegaard has thatHe’s still just 23 years old
— Andy Mac (@andymac2) February 19, 2022
He’s been an unsung hero this season. I think a few questioned signing him (including me) but he’s brought nothing but solidarity and a level we should be consistent with
— The lights are blinding my eyes (@Stomperwomper) February 20, 2022
I’d love it if he could just be a bit more ruthless in front of goal. If he finds that then potentially Arsenal have one of the best players in his position in Europe.
— LM (@louislouis27) February 19, 2022
I’d love it if he could just be a bit more ruthless in front of goal. If he finds that then potentially Arsenal have one of the best players in his position in Europe.
— LM (@louislouis27) February 19, 2022
I’d love it if he could just be a bit more ruthless in front of goal. If he finds that then potentially Arsenal have one of the best players in his position in Europe.
— LM (@louislouis27) February 19, 2022
Arsenal Fever View:
Odegaard has been Mikel Arteta’s go-to man for the No.10 position this season. With the performance on Saturday, he has further cemented his spot. The midfielder’s passing abilities are considered to be one of the best in the league.
An important aspect that needs to be added to the 23-year-old’s game is goals. He had a couple of instances in the first half where the youngster could have had an attempt on goal, but he was reluctant to shoot. However, he is still young and can only improve as time progresses.
The victory moves Arsenal to sixth position in the Premier League table, just one point off the fourth-placed Manchester United. They will face Wolves in midweek and another win would be a major boost in the club’s pursuit for Champions League football next season.
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