EPL: Raya Hails Arsenal’s Response to Brighton Defeat After Third Straight Win

Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya has praised his teammates for their response to last month’s disappointing defeat to Brighton, describing their run of three consecutive victories since the international break as incredible.

The Gunners continued their winning streak on Sunday with a narrow 1-0 victory over Nottingham Forest at the City Ground, courtesy of Noni Madueke’s 80th-minute deflected strike.

The victory came ahead of Arsenal’s UEFA Champions League encounter against Bayern Munich on Wednesday, with manager Mikel Arteta’s side seeking to maintain their positive momentum in domestic and European competitions.

Arsenal had suffered a 3-0 defeat to Brighton last month, a result that gave the team several weeks to reflect on their performance before returning to action.

However, the North London club have responded with three consecutive wins since the international break, prompting Raya to commend the team’s determination and improvement.

Speaking to Arsenal’s official website, the Spanish goalkeeper said the players had returned from the break with renewed determination following the setback against Brighton.

“We came back very, very strong, especially after that tough defeat against Brighton and having 19 days since then to play a game,” Raya said.

“The way we responded, the way we played, the way we came back, is incredible, you know.

“So, delighted with the performances we have put in every single game. There are things to improve, of course, as always, but we just take the positives, and we’re looking forward to Wednesday now.”

Arsenal’s victory over Nottingham Forest was secured despite the visitors managing only one shot on target throughout the encounter.

Madueke’s goal proved decisive in a closely contested match, highlighting Arsenal’s ability to secure important results even when they struggle to create clear-cut scoring opportunities.

Raya said the team’s performance demonstrated maturity, determination and the willingness to continue fighting for a result until the final whistle.

“(We showed) maturity and a lot of desire,” he said. “Keep doing the right things and the ball will get into the net.”

The goalkeeper also recalled Arsenal’s previous difficulties at the City Ground, where they had recorded goalless draws in the past two years.

According to him, the players showed character by continuing to push for a breakthrough despite Forest’s defensive resistance.

“We had experiences in the last two years where we drew 0-0 here (Forest), so I think we showed a lot of character to keep digging for the result, and in the end with a few crosses and a few of Bukayo’s (Saka’s) balls, the ball went in thanks to Noni,” Raya added.

He described Madueke as a special player and expressed delight that the forward had scored the decisive goal at a difficult venue.

“He’s a special player, and it’s going to be a special goal for him to get the win at such a difficult ground and such a difficult team. So, I’m delighted for him,” Raya said.

Arsenal will now turn their attention to Wednesday’s Champions League clash against Bayern Munich, with the Premier League side hoping to extend their winning run and carry their domestic form into Europe.

Raya acknowledged that there remained areas for improvement despite the recent victories but maintained that the team would focus on the positives as preparations continued for the encounter.

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