The Gunners have not won in Liverpool’s patch since 2012 – when current manager Mikel Arteta took charge of Arsenal’s midfield. This curse was finally broken.
Winning at Anfield is rare, especially for Arsenal. But Arteta’s side were ruthless at both ends of the pitch, a tactical triumph for the boss and a victory that underlined his side’s champion mentality.
“I love when it’s something we haven’t done for many years,” said the Spaniard, praising his players for what he called a “beautiful” defensive performance. If Arteta wanted to make a statement, he did.
Despite pulling back in a first half dominated by Liverpool’s pressure, the visitors restricted the hosts to zero clear shots – a record first time the Reds have failed to score at least one goal at home.
“At the end of the day, this defensive line, the way we stick together, the togetherness we have is unbeatable,” quarterback Declan Rice said. “It’s nothing I haven’t seen before.” Nine games in, Arsenal’s title defense is going perfectly to plan.
Jamie Carragher was equally impressed by Arsenal’s resilience: “It’s great to come to Anfield and be under so much pressure and not get a shot on target from the opposition or Liverpool not having a big chance given the money they spend in attack.
“When you think about Arsenal winning titles, especially in ’89 and ’91 with Tony Adams and that famous defender, I think we’re getting closer to putting those four back in the conversation.”
Gary Neville called it a “defensive masterclass”, likening Arsenal’s nous to that of Jose Mourinho’s side based on unparalleled compactness.
The Gunners also picked up 18 fouls, with Jurrien Timber, Martin Odegaard and Noni Madueke all responsible for the draw – a tactic used to stifle Liverpool’s momentum. Ezri Konsa won all eight duels he fought.
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Declan Rice sends a low cross from the top of the box to the far post where Kai Havertz delivers the finish to put Arsenal ahead against Liverpool.
This kind of application and effort pleased Arteta the most.
Under his leadership, Arsenal went on to win 81 percent of their opening league games – masters of maintaining a lead.
He added: “Not just for the win, but for the way we did it, the spirit we showed, wearing this shirt, wearing this badge. It’s every player’s responsibility to deliver those kinds of stats.
“And that’s the magic part of the game is that it can take you to really bad places, but after four days you have an incredible opportunity to do something historic, and we did it.”
“World-class Rice is the best in the Premier League”
Declan Rice was named player of the match for his magnificent performance at Anfield
Although Carragher was impressed with the Gunners’ collective effort Super Sundayhe singled out Rice for special praise, calling him a “world-class” talent.
The midfielder produced one of his most accomplished performances of the campaign so far, assisting Kai Havertz’s winner and securing a central third in a manner that boss Arteta would be proud of.
He was the defensive shield Arsenal needed when Liverpool created wind and made crucial interceptions in moments of pressure.
His 62 touches were the most of any Arsenal player. “He’s one of the best midfielders Arsenal have ever had,” Carragher said.
“Obviously they’ve got some great ones. He’s up there with the best of them. He’s been the best midfielder in the Premier League for a long time. It’s not even a debate.”