⏰ Ballard stunner puts Arsenal's defensive run to the sword | OneFootball

Sunderland's magical return to the top flight of English football could be set for another stunning chapter as the Black Cats lead 1-0 against table-topping Arsenal.

Regis Le Bris' outfit have performed well above expectations after securing promotion from the Championship last term, and former Gunners academy product Dan Ballard was the man to put his former club to the sword with a close-range belter to open the scoring in the 36th minute.

With that, Mikel Arteta's troops have surrendered their first goal in 812 minutes of action across all competitions in 2025-26.

Arsenal's defensive brilliance has been an unquestionable bedrock for the North London side this campaign, one that has propelled them to the top of both the Premier League and Champions League tables respectively.

However, amid another growing injury crisis and matches coming thick and fast on all fronts, Sunderland are now primed to pounce on the league leaders in scintillating fashion.

Can they hold on for another half to secure the biggest result of their season?

📸 Alex Livesey - 2025 Getty Images