Arsenal returned to the top of the Premier League with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Liverpool at Anfield on Sunday, ending their 14-year wait for a league win at the ground.
Kai Havertz scored the decisive goal in the first half as Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta’s side produced a disciplined defensive performance to secure three important points.
The result extended Arsenal’s impressive league form and ended Liverpool’s five-match winning streak across all competitions.
Arsenal started confidently in possession, although David Raya had to react quickly to prevent Bradley Barcola from breaking through on goal.
The visitors soon took advantage of a Liverpool mistake, with Martin Odegaard intercepting Alisson’s misplaced pass during an attempted build-up from the back.
Arsenal moved the ball forward efficiently before Declan Rice delivered a precise low cross towards the far post.
Havertz arrived unmarked to convert from close range, ending a ten-match scoring drought and giving Arsenal an early advantage.
Liverpool responded with greater intensity as Andoni Iraola’s side attempted to restore parity before half-time.
Barcola threatened after a loose touch from Ezri Konsa, but Rice recovered brilliantly to prevent the Frenchman from capitalising.
Alexander Isak also went close, although Raya intervened to prevent the Swedish striker from converting Virgil van Dijk’s header.
Florian Wirtz came even closer when his free-kick struck the crossbar, while Alexis Mac Allister headed over from a promising position.
Arsenal survived those opportunities and entered the interval with their narrow lead intact.
Liverpool continued pushing after the restart, but Isak failed to hit the target when presented with another opening.
Arteta’s side gradually gained greater control, frustrating the hosts while remaining dangerous on the counterattack.
Christos Tzolis almost doubled Arsenal’s advantage with a curling effort, forcing Alisson into an excellent diving save.
The Brazilian goalkeeper also benefited from an important recovery challenge by Jeremy Jacquet after Liverpool were caught out defensively.
Tensions increased towards the closing stages, with Mac Allister booked following an altercation involving Odegaard and Noni Madueke.
However, Arsenal maintained their composure and restricted Liverpool’s attacking opportunities as the final whistle approached.
The victory was Arsenal’s first Premier League success at Anfield since September 2012, when Arteta was still a member of the playing squad.
It also marked the club’s 300th away victory in Premier League history, making them only the second team after Manchester United to reach that milestone.
Crucially, Arsenal moved above Manchester City following their rivals’ defeat against Brighton on Saturday.
After Tuesday’s disappointing Carabao Cup elimination against Fleetwood Town, the champions delivered an emphatic response to strengthen their position in the title race.