## Arsenal Assert Dominance at Elland Road with Set-Piece Mastery, Eyeing Seven-Point Lead
Premier League frontrunners Arsenal have established a commanding two-goal advantage over Leeds United at Elland Road, largely thanks to a masterclass in set-piece execution. Their dominant first-half display positions them perfectly to extend their lead at the top of the table, putting significant pressure on their title rivals.
### Madueke Shines After Saka’s Unfortunate Exit
The Gunners faced an early setback when star forward Bukayo Saka was forced out of the warm-up due to a muscle injury, a concerning development for the league leaders. However, his replacement, Noni Madueke, seized the opportunity to make a significant impact, orchestrating both crucial goals from the corner flag and proving an able deputy.
### Zubimendi Capitalizes on Box Scramble
Madueke’s initial contribution arrived in the 27th minute. A perfectly delivered inswinging corner from the substitute plunged the Leeds penalty area into disarray. Amidst a chaotic tussle for possession, Martin Zubimendi showed predatory instinct, bundling the ball over the line to put Arsenal ahead. The goal highlighted the Gunners’ ability to convert opportunities created from dead-ball situations.
### Defensive Blunder Gifts Gunners Second
Just ten minutes later, Arsenal doubled their advantage, this time benefiting from a moment of sheer defensive misfortune from the home side. Another venomous inswinging corner from Madueke arced directly towards the net, but Leeds goalkeeper Karl Darlow spectacularly misjudged its flight. Instead of clearing the danger cleanly, Darlow punched the ball directly off his own defender, watching in horror as it ricocheted into the goal, giving Arsenal a comfortable cushion.
### Half-Time Assurance for Title Aspirations
With a formidable two-goal lead heading into the interval, Arsenal are firmly on track to re-establish a significant seven-point gap at the summit of the Premier League. This crucial advantage would put immense pressure on title rivals Manchester City, who are scheduled to face Tottenham on Sunday, as the Gunners continue their relentless pursuit of the championship.