EPL: Arsenal beat Liverpool at Anfield to go top of Premier League
Spread the word Arsenal strengthened their Premier League title ambitions on Sunday with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Liverpool at Anfield, a result that sent Mikel Arteta's side to the top of the table. Kai Havertz's 16th-minute strike proved decisive as the Gunners secured a significant away victory against one of their biggest rivals, moving to 24 points from nine matches and opening a three-point gap over Manchester City.
Blueprint reports The result also dealt a setback to Liverpool's campaign, leaving the defending contenders on 15 points and further away from the leading position. The encounter brought together two sides with contrasting ambitions at this stage of the season.
Arsenal arrived at Anfield level on 21 points with Manchester City, but behind on goal difference and with a game in hand, while Liverpool began the match fifth with 15 points. Havertz punishes Liverpool's defensive lapse Arsenal made their early pressure count when Havertz found the net in the 16th minute following a costly mistake in Liverpool's attempt to play out from the back.
Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson Becker's poor pass allowed Arsenal to regain possession, with Martin Ødegaard leading the press before the visitors quickly moved the ball forward. Declan Rice then delivered an excellent cross into the area, which Havertz met at the far post to give Arsenal the lead.
The goal exposed Liverpool's vulnerability in possession and gave Arteta's men the platform to approach the remainder of the contest with greater tactical discipline. Liverpool attempted to respond, enjoying spells of possession and pushing players forward, but struggled to convert their territorial advantage into clear-cut opportunities.
Florian Wirtz came close with a free-kick that struck the crossbar, while Alexis Mac Allister and Alexander Isak also had opportunities to bring the hosts back into the contest. Arsenal withstand Liverpool's pressure Liverpool's search for an equaliser forced Arsenal into a demanding defensive performance, with David Raya and the visitors' backline required to remain alert against the hosts' attacking threats.
Arsenal, however, remained dangerous on the counter-attack, looking to exploit spaces left behind as Liverpool committed more players forward. Christos Tzolis tested Alisson, while the visitors also benefited from the defensive recovery of their opponents on a number of promising attacking transitions.
The contest became increasingly tense as the minutes passed, with a confrontation involving Mac Allister and Arsenal players resulting in yellow cards for the Liverpool midfielder and Jurrien Timber. Liverpool introduced fresh attacking options, including Dominik Szoboszlai and Rio Ngumoha, in an attempt to change the direction of the game, but Arsenal remained organised as they sought to protect their advantage.
Arsenal take control of title race The victory represents a major statement of intent from Arsenal, who have emerged as early contenders for the Premier League crown. Before the match, the Gunners had won seven of their opening eight league fixtures, losing only once, and had conceded just five goals.