Raya Praises Arsenal’s ‘Incredible’ Response After Brighton Defeat

Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya has praised the team’s response to their surprise 3-0 defeat by Brighton last month, saying three consecutive victories since the international break have demonstrated their strength and character.

Mikel Arteta’s side continued their winning run on Sunday with a 1-0 victory over Nottingham Forest, secured by Noni Madueke’s late goal at the City Ground. Arsenal will now turn their attention to Wednesday’s Champions League clash against Bayern Munich.

The Gunners had several weeks to reflect on their defeat by Brighton before returning to action, but Raya said the team had responded strongly to the setback.

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

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

Raya said he was pleased with the team’s performances since the break, while acknowledging that there was still room for improvement.

“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,” the goalkeeper said.

Arsenal’s latest victory was not without difficulty. Madueke’s 80th-minute effort took a deflection before finding the net, giving the visitors all three points despite their limited attacking threat. The goal was Arsenal’s only shot on target at the City Ground.

The result highlighted the team’s ability to secure victories even when they are unable to dominate matches, a quality that proved important during their title-winning campaign last season.

Raya said Arsenal’s determination and composure had been central to the win against Forest, who proved difficult opponents on their home ground.

“(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 recalled previous visits to Nottingham Forest when Arsenal had been held to goalless draws, saying the team showed character by continuing to push for a decisive goal.

“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 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 said.

He also praised Madueke, describing him as a special player and expressing delight that the winger had scored the winner at a difficult venue.

The victory gives Arsenal three wins from three matches since the international break and provides a positive backdrop for their trip to face Bayern Munich in the Champions League on Wednesday.