Title holders Arsenal finally broke their long Anfield hoodoo with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Liverpool on Sunday evening. Kai Havertz scored the only goal of the game in the 16th minute to send the defending champions to the top of the Premier League table.

The Gunners had not won a league match at Anfield since September 2012. On that day, current manager Mikel Arteta was still playing in midfield for Arsenal. Fourteen years later, Arteta watched his side finally end the wait on the same ground.

The breakthrough came after a loose pass from Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson. Arsenal quickly worked the ball to the right, where Declan Rice overlapped and delivered a low cross to the far post. Havertz was there to tap the ball into the net from close range. It was a simple finish, but it proved enough.

Liverpool responded with pressure. Florian Wirtz struck the crossbar with a free-kick, and Alexis Mac Allister headed over from a good position. There were also penalty claims when Alexander Isak felt he was held by Jurriën Timber, but the referee waved them away. Arsenal stayed organised and limited the hosts’ clear chances after the break.

The visitors defended with discipline and managed the game well in the second half. Liverpool kept pushing, but they could not find an equaliser. Arsenal held on for a valuable clean sheet and three points on the road.

The result takes Arsenal to 24 points from nine games, three points clear of Manchester City at the top of the table. City had dropped points the previous day. Liverpool, whose five-match unbeaten run came to an end, remain further back.

For Arsenal, the win is more than just three points. Ending the 14-year wait at Anfield gives the squad confidence as they try to defend their title. Arteta’s side has shown once again that they can dig in and take the points in tough away games.

Liverpool will be disappointed to lose at home, especially after creating some good moments. They must now regroup and try to close the gap on the leaders. For Arsenal, this Anfield triumph will be remembered as an important step in their season.

Source: https://x.com/KickOffMagazine/status/2116965397387743238