Arsenal suffered their first defeat of the season on Monday, losing 3-0 to Brighton & Hove Albion at the Amex Stadium. The result marked a significant setback for the defending Premier League champions, who had won all seven of their previous matches across all competitions.

Brighton dominated from the outset, with Pascal Gross opening the scoring in the 31st minute with a long-range strike that beat Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya. Just before halftime, Charalampos Kostoulas capitalized on poor defensive spacing to extend the lead with another precise shot from distance.

The home side sealed their victory early in the second half when Chema Andres headed in a corner delivered by Gross, marking Brighton’s 16th goal in five league matches this season. The 3-0 loss was Arsenal’s heaviest defeat in over three years and their third consecutive loss at Brighton following similar results against Liverpool and Manchester City in previous seasons.

Manager Mikel Arteta expressed disappointment but acknowledged Brighton’s superior performance. He described the defeat as a “big lesson” and stressed the need for Arsenal to improve key aspects of their game to compete consistently at the top level.

“This is a reminder of the standards required in the Premier League,” Arteta said. “The way Brighton played and our inability to meet certain basics showed us exactly what it takes to win.”

Brighton entered the match buoyed by a recent comeback victory over Manchester United in the League Cup, becoming the first team in 50 years to win at Old Trafford after trailing 2-0. Brighton’s manager Fabian Hurzeler praised his team’s effort and confidence in overcoming the champions.

Elsewhere, Tottenham Hotspur’s struggles continued as they lost 3-2 to Aston Villa, leaving them in the Premier League’s relegation zone ahead of the international break. After failing to score in four consecutive matches, Spurs finally found the net through Conor Gallagher and Jan Paul van Hecke, but the goals came too late to alter the outcome.

Aston Villa’s victory was secured by early goals from Johan Manzambi and Nicolas Jackson, with Emi Buendia adding a late third. Spurs manager Roberto De Zerbi criticised his team’s defensive frailties and called on the squad’s leaders to improve cohesion and resolve.

The international break looms with several clubs facing pressure. Tottenham could finish the week at the bottom of the table depending on other results, while Coventry City recorded a milestone 1-0 win over Nottingham Forest—their first Premier League victory in 25 years—thanks to a goal from Jay Dasilva.

Newcastle United also ended Hull City’s unbeaten start with a 2-1 victory, scoring twice early through Joe Willock and Lewis Hall. Hull fought back with a late goal from Mohamed-Ali Cho but were unable to find an equalizer, with goalkeeper Konstantinos Tzolakis denying a penalty before halftime.

Everton continued their strong start to the season with a narrow 1-0 win over Ipswich Town. Thierno Barry scored the decisive goal, while Ipswich was reduced to 10 men after Abdul Fatawu received a second yellow card for simulation following a VAR review.

As the Premier League pauses for international fixtures, teams will have time to reflect on early-season performances amid a tightly contested table.