Arsenal show their character: Hard-fought win over Brighton follows heated Chelsea derby – Women's team also impress

What a week it's been for Arsenal! In the space of just three days, the Gunners had to play two away games – and they've well and truly stamped their mark with some impressive character. Following a heated 2-2 draw in the derby at Stamford Bridge against Chelsea, they delivered a focused 3-1 away win at Brighton on Wednesday night. Mikel Arteta's side is looking in absolutely top condition, not just in terms of their football, but mentally as well.

A derby without a loser – but plenty of clear takeaways

The London derby between Chelsea and Arsenal on Tuesday had everything a neutral fan could want: grit, passion, goals, and a bit of controversy. Chelsea started like a house on fire, but Arsenal showed their comeback quality. The Blues took the lead twice, and twice Arsenal hit back – first through a resurgent Kai Havertz, then with a powerful header from Gabriel Magalhães. That there was no winner in the end was a fair result, as both teams went hammer and tongs at each other in an open contest. It was a game of big numbers – 41 shots, 21 fouls and four goals, an unusual combination that perfectly reflects the intensity of the match. The key takeaway? This Arsenal side can mix it with the top teams, they can bounce back from setbacks, and they've developed an impressive inner strength.

Brighton comfortably handled – efficiency is key

Less than 48 hours later, Arsenal had another tough away game on their plate: a trip to the south coast to face a difficult Brighton side. Normally, that's a real test of character for any team. But Arteta's men showed no signs of fatigue. They dominated the game from the outset, making the ball and the opposition do the work. Brighton struggled to get going, while Arsenal were ice-cold in front of goal. A quick-fire double just before half-time from Saka and Trossard put them in the driver's seat. After the break, Martin Ødegaard added a third with a stunning strike from 18 yards – game over. Brighton's late consolation goal was nothing more than that. In the end, a well-deserved 3-1 win for the Gunners, showing just how deep their squad now runs. The bookies had tipped this as a close one before kick-off – but Arsenal blew those expectations out of the water and underlined their Premier League ambitions.

The key ingredients for success

• Defensive stability: After a few wobbly opening minutes against Chelsea, the defence, marshalled by Saliba and Gabriel, looked rock-solid against Brighton. Conceding just one goal in two games speaks volumes.
• Goals from midfield: Ødegaard, Rice, and Havertz all know where the back of the net is these days. The goal threat from the middle of the park has increased massively.
• Squad depth: Arteta rotated wisely against Brighton, bringing in fresh legs like Trossard, who scored immediately. This team is no longer reliant on just one or two star players.
• Mental fortitude: To not let up after an emotional derby, but to come out even more focused – that's the hallmark of a top-class side.

Women's team also on a winning streak

While the men are getting the fans excited, Arsenal WFC are also powering through the Women's Super League. Jonas Eidevall's side won their catch-up game against Leicester City comfortably, 4-0 on Wednesday, strengthening their grip on top spot. Striker Stina Blackstenius is on fire at the moment, bagging a brace and showing her quality in front of goal. So, Arsenal are showing impressive consistency this season, not just in the men's game but in the women's as well. It feels like the whole club is caught up in a really positive vibe right now – and that's a real threat to the competition in both leagues.

It's one game after another for Arsenal at the moment. Next up is Nottingham Forest at the weekend – a team that's also finding some form. But after these two gutsy performances, Arteta can trust his squad. If the Gunners can carry this momentum forward, there's plenty to play for this season. One thing's for sure right now: this Arsenal side is back among the big boys – and they're planning on staying there.