Arsenal secured their first Premier League victory at Anfield in 14 years on Sunday, beating Liverpool 1-0 through Kai Havertz's first-half goal. The result ended a run of 16 unsuccessful visits in all competitions since Arsenal's previous win at the stadium in 2012, when Mikel Arteta was the club's captain.
The victory came only four days after Arsenal suffered an embarrassing Carabao Cup defeat by League Two side Fleetwood Town. Arteta said that setback could help motivate his team, and praised the players for responding with what he described as a historic performance.
Arsenal were forced to withstand sustained pressure after taking the lead. Liverpool attacked repeatedly before half-time, while the visitors defended resolutely throughout the second half and did not allow a shot on target. The clean sheet was Arsenal's first at Anfield in the Premier League since their 2012 victory.
Declan Rice provided the assist for Havertz and said Arsenal had remained united despite Liverpool's relentless attacks. Rice has now recorded five league assists this season. Arsenal have also kept six clean sheets in the campaign.
The win leaves Arsenal on 24 points after nine matches, three points clear at the top of the Premier League. It is the club's highest tally at this stage since 2022-23 and the second-highest after nine games in their Premier League history, behind the 2004-05 and 2007-08 seasons.
Arsenal's defensive strength has compensated for a less productive attack, with the team scoring 14 league goals in nine matches. Arteta has had limited options in attack because of injuries and suspensions affecting Bukayo Saka, Max Dowman, Christos Tzolis, Viktor Gyokeres and Havertz.
Arteta said the victory was particularly meaningful because of the length of Arsenal's wait for success at Anfield. He also cited away wins against Chelsea and Manchester United as examples of the challenges his team wants to overcome as it competes to defend its title.
Sources: BBC Sport.