Kai Havertz celebrates a thrilling victory for Arsenal against Brentford

Kai Havertz, the forward considered his late header to seal Arsenal's victory over Brentford and move them to the top of the Premier League as a "dream" moment.

Twenty-four hours later, Arsenal's title rivals Manchester City and Liverpool squared off; victory for Arsenal would have propelled them to the top for the first time in 2024.

With four minutes remaining, Havertz scored to secure a 2-1 victory. However, it appeared they would lose after returning custodian Aaron Ramsdale gave up a goal to Yoane Wissa, negating a fantastic header by Declan Rice.

Havertz, who joined from Chelsea in the summer, had a slow start before scoring the game's winning goal against Manchester City in the 2021 Champions League final. Now, he has four goals in four league games, and the home crowd cheered him on at the end of the game.

"I think you dreamed as a child that you were going to have moments like this in your career, and I had something like this on Saturday," he remarked.

The supporters made it especially special for me, and I am grateful for this opportunity. To all of them, I am grateful.

"That is what you always hope for—a relationship with fans." Though I am sure it was not from the start, I always try to work hard and maintain my self-assurance.

"I simply gave every game my all and did it, so I am glad I have experienced some of those moments.

"We played a big game, so I am thrilled. Participating in these games and coming out on top was a wonderful feeling.

Given that Havertz had the potential to be sent off earlier in the game, his late goal generated controversy.

The Germany forward appeared to dive to win a penalty in the second half after receiving a warning for elbowing Kristoffer Ajer.

Vitaly Janelt told the official Brentford website, "At this point, I do not think momentum is on our side."

"Considering their recent performance, everyone anticipated that Arsenal would win by a score of three, four, or five today. However, everyone knows how challenging it is to play against us, whether at home or away.

They didn't offer many opportunities, and in my opinion, Havertz was given a clear yellow card followed by a red dive. Then, but that's football, he scored the game-winning goal.