Arsenal moved to the top of the Premier League with a 1-0 victory against Liverpool on Sunday. Kai Havertz scored the decisive goal in the 16th minute at Anfield. The result gave the visitors their first away win against Liverpool in 14 years.
The team climbed three points clear at the summit. Manchester City face potential severe points penalties relating to over 100 charges of breaking league rules, making the victory a major early boost for Arsenal’s title aspirations.
"It’s been such a long time without this feeling here, that we really needed it," said Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta. "We are extremely proud of what the team, the players, everybody has done."
Arteta had criticized his side after they suffered a shock League Cup exit against fourth-tier Fleetwood. The Arsenal boss received the reaction he wanted when Declan Rice delivered a precise low cross for Havertz to convert with a simple finish.
Liverpool responded under manager Andoni Iraola, creating numerous chances during an intense first half. Alexander Isak, Florian Wirtz and Bradley Barcola all started together in attack for the hosts.
Iraola expressed frustration after a penalty appeal was turned down when Jurrien Timber pulled back Isak by the shirt. "The Alex one is a clear penalty," Iraola said. "We can all see that he holds the shirt, but because he doesn’t go to the floor, you are not going to call the penalty? I don’t understand it."
Wirtz also came close by curling a free-kick onto the crossbar, while Alexis Mac Allister missed a close-range header. Arteta acknowledged that his team faced pressure during the opening period before regrouping at half-time.
Liverpool tired in the second half, allowing Arsenal to regain control. Alisson Becker made a brilliant save to deny Christos Tzolis, but Liverpool could not find an equalizer.
Defeat leaves fifth-placed Liverpool nine points behind the league leaders. "We have to keep going. It is very early in the season," Iraola stated after the match.
Arsenal secured their eighth win in nine league games to close out the weekend.
