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Arsenal secured their first Premier League win at Anfield in 14 years by defeating Liverpool 10 thanks to a first-half goal from Kai Havertz. Manager Mikel Arteta had told his players before the match that today had to be the day to break the long winless streak at the stadium.
A Defensive Masterclass After Cup Disappointment
Arteta was the Arsenal captain the last time the Gunners won at Liverpool with a 2-0 scoreline in 2012, followed by 16 unsuccessful trips across all competitions. The Spanish manager stated that he felt an embarrassing Carabao Cup loss to League Two side Fleetwood Town four days earlier could push his squad toward a historic result. He expressed extreme pride in the victory, the team spirit shown, and the ability to respond immediately after a disappointing cup exit.
Centre-back Gabriel predicted a big battle and significant chaos against Liverpool. After taking the lead, Arsenal absorbed wave after wave of attacks and were pinned back before halftime. While the second half proved calmer, the visitors defended resolutely and prevented Liverpool from recording a single shot on target.
Climbing to the Top of the Table
With six clean sheets this season, the Gunners hold 24 points from nine games, sitting three points clear at the top of the table. This points tally matches their best start since the 2022-23 season, trailing only the 2004-05 and 2007-08 campaigns for points at this stage.
Match winner Havertz acknowledged that ending the 13-game Premier League winless run at the venue is what the club’s fans deserve. Midfielder Declan Rice, who provided the assist for Havertz, noted that the stadium creates relentless waves of attacks, praising the squad’s undefeated togetherness.
Title Ambitions and Defensive Strength
Arsenal sit two points ahead of where they were after nine matches last season. Although the attack has scored only 14 league goals amid injuries and suspensions to players like Bukayo Saka and Max Dowman, the defensive unit remains elite after conceding just 27 goals last campaign.
Arteta expressed pride in accomplishing a rare feat, noting that conquering grounds like Chelsea, Manchester United, and now Liverpool serves as the primary motivation for his squad. With Manchester City sitting in second place amid ongoing financial rule hearings and other top clubs in transition, Arsenal maintain a strong position at the summit.
