Arsenal end 14-year wait for Anfield win as Havertz seals victory over Liverpool
Kai Havertz's first-half goal gave Arsenal their first Premier League win at Anfield in 14 years, lifting them three points clear at the top after a defensive masterclass against Liverpool.
Arsenal secured their first Premier League victory at Anfield in 14 years on Sunday, beating Liverpool through Kai Havertz's first-half goal. Mikel Arteta, who was Arsenal captain the last time the club won there in 2012, had told his players before kick-off that "today has to be the day" - and they delivered after 16 unsuccessful trips in all competitions.
The win came just four days after an embarrassing Carabao Cup exit at League Two Fleetwood Town. Arteta said that humbling defeat may have spurred his side on, describing the turnaround as the "magical part of this game" and praising the spirit his players showed in producing something historic.
Centre-back Gabriel had predicted a "big battle" and "big chaos" beforehand, and Arsenal were pinned back before the break after taking the lead. The second half was calmer, but the Gunners defended resolutely and did not allow Liverpool a shot on target, recording their first Premier League clean sheet at Anfield since 2012.
Match winner Havertz said the result meant a lot to the club and was what the fans deserved, while Declan Rice - who assisted the goal - called Liverpool's waves of attack relentless and said the togetherness in the Arsenal squad was undefeated.
Arsenal now lead the table by three points after nine games, with 24 points - their most at this stage since 2022-23. Their attack is not yet flowing, with just 14 league goals, and Arteta has been short of forward options, but the defence that conceded only 27 goals last season again looks capable of being the difference.
