Premier League: Arsenal end Anfield curse to go top
Fourteen years after their last win at Anfield, Arsenal have finally found a way to win at Liverpool. The Gunners prevailed by the narrowest of margins (1-0) on Sunday in Matchweek 9 of the Premier League. A precious result which, with Manchester City stumbling against Brighton, puts them back alone at the top of the table.
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In a match in which Liverpool dictated the tempo for long spells, Arsenal showed remarkable ruthlessness. Though the contest was fairly even early on, the Londoners found a way through in the 16th minute. Following a sloppy intervention from Alisson, Declan Rice won the ball back and sent a cross in front of goal. Well placed at the back post, Kai Havertz made the most of the delivery to score the only goal of the game.
Trailing, the Reds gradually stepped up the pressure. Alexander Isak, Florian Wirtz and Alexis Mac Allister were among those who tried to level the scores, without success. Wirtz even saw an effort come back off David Raya's crossbar, while Liverpool's other chances lacked precision.
Liverpool push, Gunners hold firm
After the break, Andoni Iraola's men continued to press forward, intent on making up the deficit. The introduction of Dominik Szoboszlai in the 54th minute was meant to bring more creativity to the Reds' attacking play. But despite territorial dominance and constant pressure, Liverpool could not find a way through.
Arsenal could even have put the result beyond doubt in the 74th minute. From a cutback by Noni Madueke, Cristos Tzolis tried a curling first-time effort that forced Alisson into a fine save. The Londoners then held out until the final whistle, preserving their advantage.
A historic win in the title race
Beyond the three points, the result ends a fourteen-year wait for Arsenal at Anfield. The Gunners' last win on this ground dated back to September 2012, a 2-0 victory.
This time the win is narrower, but its consequences in the table are considerable. With Manchester City's defeat against Brighton, Arsenal regain top spot in the Premier League and now hold a three-point lead over the Citizens.
Mikel Arteta's side thus do excellent business in the title race. By winning at one of the toughest grounds in the league, they send a strong signal to their rivals.