According to a report by Flashscore on Saturday, November 7, 2026, Arsenal faced an unexpected challenge against Hull City at the Emirates Stadium, with Mikel Arteta's side heading into the half-time break without scoring despite controlling much of the opening period.

The goalless first half exposed some weaknesses in Arsenal's attacking performance, particularly in the final third. Hull defended with discipline and prevented the hosts from creating enough clear-cut opportunities. The visitors also threatened going forward, forcing goalkeeper David Raya to make an important save from Elliot Stroud.

Three Arsenal players came under particular scrutiny following their performances before the interval: Martin Ødegaard, Kai Havertz and Noni Madueke.

Ødegaard's influence was below what Arsenal supporters would normally expect from their captain. The Norwegian midfielder struggled to find the spaces needed to organise attacks and deliver the decisive passes that could break down Hull's defensive structure. Arsenal needed greater creativity from him, especially with the visitors successfully restricting opportunities through the middle.

Havertz also found it difficult to impose himself on the contest. The German forward was expected to provide a strong presence in the attacking area, but Hull's defenders limited his involvement and prevented him from becoming a consistent threat.

One incident involving Havertz briefly raised hopes of a penalty for Arsenal. However, a VAR review established that the forward had been offside before the challenge, ruling out the possibility of a spot kick. He consequently needed to improve his movement and ability to find opportunities after the restart.

Madueke experienced similar difficulties on the right wing. Although the winger possesses the pace and dribbling skills to trouble defenders, he struggled to produce the attacking penetration required to unsettle Hull. Arsenal needed him to make better decisions and use his individual ability more effectively.

The three players represented different areas of Arsenal's attacking difficulties, from midfield creativity to central finishing and wide penetration.

With neither side finding a breakthrough before half-time, Arteta faced the challenge of improving his team's attacking effectiveness. Arsenal needed greater urgency, sharper movement and better execution in front of goal to turn their possession into a winning advantage.