- Arsenal beat Fulham on Saturday evening to reclaim Premier League top spot from Manchester City
- Fans have termed the win a perfect tribute to Raila Odinga ahead of his burial on Sunday in Bondo
- Raila was a passionate Arsenal supporter and attended some of their games at the Emirates Stadium
Arsenal beat Fulham 1-0 to go to the top of the Premier League table on Saturday evening.
Source: Getty Images
Leandro Trossard’s tap-in was the difference maker between the two sides at Craven Cottage in the London derby.
This was Arsenal’s first game since the death of Raila Odinga, who was an ardent fan of the North London club.
The former Prime Minister died on Wednesday, October 15, while receiving treatment in India. He will be buried on Sunday at the Kang’o Ka Jaramogi in Siaya County.
Fulham vs Arsenal match report
The game didn’t have a lot of clear-cut chances as both sides played compact football in West London.
Mikel Arteta made only one change to his previous starting XI, bringing in Martin Zubimendi for the injured captain, Martin Odegaard.
Riccardo Calafiori had a goal ruled out for offside in the build-up in the first half.
Leandro Trossard’s goal vs Fulham
In the second half, Trossard broke the deadlock after Arsenal finally got one of their corners right. Bukayo Saka floated in a corner from the right, which was flicked by Gabriel Magalhaes to find an unmarked Trossard at the far post in the 58th minute.
A few minutes later, Arsenal thought they had a chance to double their lead when Saka was brought down by Kevin on the edge of the penalty area. Referee Anthony Taylor awarded a penalty but rescinded the decision after a VAR review.
In stoppage time, Bernd Leno pulled off an amazing double save to deny Viktor Gyokeres and Gabriel Martinelli in quick succession.
Source: Getty Images
The win takes Arsenal to 19 points, retaking the top spot from Manchester City, who had earlier beaten Everton 2-0.
Perfect tribute for Raila Odinga
Fans online reacted to the win, terming it the perfect way to send off Raila. Dharma Jo said,
“A win for The Late RT. Honourable Raila Amolo. Rest in power, Baba.”
Antomara Rakuom,
“Arsenal FC have done it for the Rt. Hon. Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga, the Enigma.”
While Lunalo said,
“A Big win for a befitting send-off to one of Arsenal’s most ardent fans from Kenya, Raila Odinga!”
Arsenal Fans TV mourns Raila Odinga
Earlier, Arsenal Fans TV had issued a tribute in memory of Raila.
AFTV, which is the largest fan-based network in the whole world, thanked Raila for being part of the Arsenal family.
“As a passionate Arsenal supporter and a friend to our community, his warmth and commitment inspired many. His legacy will live on, not only among Arsenal fans but across Kenya, where his leadership and love for the game touched countless lives.”
Arsenal will play Atletico Madrid in the Champions League on Tuesday before they host Crystal Palace next weekend.
Source: TUKO.co.ke
