Liverpool 0-1 Arsenal: Havertz ends Gunners’ 14-year Anfield wait
· Yahoo Sports
Kai Havertz’s first-half goal secured Arsenal a 1-0 victory over Liverpool, clinching their first Premier League win at Anfield since 2012.
The German international put the visitors ahead in the 16th minute after capitalising on a defensive error from the Reds, who were unable to respond despite enjoying spells of attacking pressure.
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As it happened
Iraola made one change to his starting XI from Liverpool’s previous Premier League outing, with Trey Nyoni replacing Ryan Gravenberch in midfield for his first league start. Mikel Arteta, meanwhile, made five changes to his side, including Kai Havertz starting ahead of Viktor Gyökeres.
Arsenal enjoyed more possession in the opening stages, although neither side created much in front of goal. Cody Gakpo had an early chance for Liverpool but dragged his effort wide in the seventh minute.
The Gunners broke the deadlock in the 16th minute after a misplaced pass from Alisson allowed them to regain possession. Declan Rice made an overlapping run around Noni Madueke before delivering a low cross into the box, where Havertz was waiting at the far post to finish.
The goal appeared to bring the match to life, with the Reds beginning to apply more pressure in Arsenal’s half. Bradley Barcola looked particularly threatening down the left, but Liverpool could not find a way through the visitors’ defence.
The hosts came closest to equalising when Florian Wirtz struck the crossbar with a free-kick in the 39th minute. Alexis Mac Allister then headed over from Milos Kerkez’s delivery three minutes later as the Reds continued to press.
Iraola’s side kept pushing forward after the break, but the Gunners remained difficult to break down.
The visitors had an opportunity of their own at the other end, with Christos Tzolis curling a first-time effort towards the bottom corner in the 73rd minute and forcing a fine save from Alisson.
Tempers flared in the 78th minute following a confrontation involving several players. Alexis Mac Allister and Jurriën Timber were both shown yellow cards.
Iraola made further changes in the closing stages as the hosts searched for a late equaliser, but Arteta’s squad held firm at the back.
Liverpool pushed higher up the pitch and spent much of stoppage time in the visitors’ half, but they failed to find a breakthrough. They registered 17 shots and won seven corners, but not a single attempt was on target.
The victory moved Arsenal three points clear of Manchester City at the top of the Premier League table with 24 points, while Liverpool remained fifth on 15 points.