Havertz and Ødegaard sink Chelsea in London derby

Arsenal are beginning to look like an upgraded version of last season's title-winning side. That early conclusion gained weight on Sunday, when they beat local rivals Chelsea 2-1 to make it three wins from three Premier League matches.

The victory puts Arsenal on nine points, level with Manchester City, the only other team with a perfect record. It may be an early sign that the two clubs will again compete for the championship this season.

Chelsea, who have six points from three games, took a dream start after only two minutes. New signing Morgan Rogers met the loose ball and drove a low shot into the net for 1-0.

Arsenal responded midway through the first half. Kai Havertz controlled the move and finished elegantly at the other end. Chelsea winger Pedro Neto then struck the post with a close-range effort in the final dangerous moment before halftime.

Five minutes into the second half, Martin Ødegaard scored the decisive goal. Arsenal's new winger Christos Tzolis supplied the assist, while Havertz created the surprise by stepping over the ball inside the penalty area. Ødegaard was left with the time and space he needed.

Bukayo Saka came close to extending Arsenal's lead, but Chelsea goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez made a strong save. Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya then denied substitute Estevao at the other end. Chelsea generally lacked the final quality needed to take points from the season's first London derby.