Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has praised his players' resilience after a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Liverpool ended the club's 14-year wait for a Premier League win at Anfield.
Kai Havertz scored the winner in the first half, helping the Gunners bounce back from their shock Carabao Cup elimination against League Two side Fleetwood Town.
The victory moved Arsenal three points clear of Manchester City at the top of the table.
Arteta celebrates long-awaited Anfield victory
Speaking to Sky Sports after the match, Arteta reflected on the significance of ending Arsenal's long winless run at Liverpool.
"Extremely proud. It's been 14 years, that's a long time," the Spaniard said.
Arsenal had not won a league match at Anfield since September 2012, when Arteta was still part of the club's midfield.
Sunday's result was particularly satisfying after Fleetwood knocked the Gunners out of the League Cup on penalties earlier in the week.
The Arsenal manager praised his players' response to that setback as they secured another important victory in their title defence.
Rice sets up Havertz as Arsenal withstand Liverpool pressure
Havertz broke the deadlock in the 16th minute after Liverpool failed to play their way out of defence.
Martin Ødegaard intercepted Alisson Becker's misplaced pass, allowing Arsenal to attack quickly.
Declan Rice delivered a low cross that Havertz turned home from close range.
Liverpool responded strongly, with Florian Wirtz striking the crossbar from a free-kick and Alexis Mac Allister missing a promising headed opportunity.
Arsenal also survived a penalty appeal after Jurrien Timber appeared to pull Alexander Isak's shirt inside the area.
Despite sustained Liverpool pressure, Arteta's side defended resolutely to protect their narrow lead.
Arsenal strengthen Premier League title defence
The result gave Arsenal their eighth league victory in nine matches and lifted them to 24 points.
They now lead Manchester City by three points, with Liverpool nine points behind in fifth.
For Arteta, the win offered further evidence of his team's ability to respond under pressure.
Key Points
- Arsenal secured their first Premier League victory at Anfield since 2012.
- Havertz scored from Rice's cross in the 16th minute.
- The Gunners moved three points clear at the top.
What's Next?
Arsenal travel to Slavia Prague in the Champions League, looking to build on their Anfield victory and maintain momentum in their title defence.
0 Comments
First read message
Leave a comment
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *