Arsenal's long wait for a victory at Anfield has ended in emphatic fashion. According to Sky Sports, the Gunners secured a 1–0 win on Merseyside on 1 November, with Kai Havertz scoring the winner in the 16th minute from Declan Rice's cross, putting Arsenal three points clear at the top of the Premier League.
The last time the Gunners had triumphed on this ground was in 2012, when Mikel Arteta himself was orchestrating Arsenal's play from the centre of the pitch. That 14-year drought has now been consigned to history, and the manner of the victory has left observers in no doubt about the quality of Arteta's side.
Arsenal's performance was defined by ruthlessness at both ends of the pitch. The visitors absorbed relentless Liverpool pressure in the opening 45 minutes yet restricted their hosts to a remarkable statistic: zero accurate shots on target. This marked the first time on record that Liverpool failed to register at least one attempt on target at home.
Arteta's delight was evident in his post-match assessment.
I love when there is something that we haven't done for many years,the Spanish manager said, before lavishing praise on his players' defensive showing.
It's a commitment of every single player in every action to deliver those kinds of stats. And that's the magical part about this game, that it can take you to really bad places, but four days later you have an incredible opportunity to do something historic, and we've done it.
Arteta's tactical blueprint proved devastatingly effective. The Gunners won 18 fouls across the match, with Jurrien Timber, Martin Odegaard and Noni Madueke each drawing three apiece—a deliberate strategy to disrupt Liverpool's rhythm and momentum. Ezri Konsa's defensive contribution was equally notable, winning all eight of the duels he contested.
The manager highlighted the cohesion that underpinned the victory.
Not only for the victory, but for the way we've done it, the spirit that we showed, the way we carried this shirt, this badge,he explained, emphasising that such performances demand total commitment from every player in every moment.
Rice's world-class mastery
While Arsenal's collective defensive effort drew widespread acclaim, one player stood out for particular commendation: Declan Rice. The midfielder delivered one of his most complete performances of the season, combining his assist for Havertz's goal with a commanding display in the middle third that recalled the very best of Arteta's own playing days.
Rice was the defensive shield Arsenal required when Liverpool were generating sustained pressure. He made crucial interceptions at critical moments and accumulated 62 touches—the highest of any Arsenal player on the day. His presence allowed the Gunners to control the tempo and transition from defence to attack with precision.
Jamie Carragher, the former Liverpool defender, was effusive in his praise.
He's one of the best midfield players Arsenal have ever had. They've obviously had some great ones. He's right up there with the best of them. He's the best midfield player in the Premier League by a long way. It's not even a debate.
Carragher also reflected on Arsenal's defensive resilience as a collective unit.
To come to Anfield and be put under that much pressure and not have a shot on target from the opposition, or Liverpool not get a big chance given the money they have spent on their attack, is outstanding. When you think about Arsenal winning titles, especially in '89 and '91 with Tony Adams and that famous back four, I think we're getting close to putting this back four in that conversation.
Gary Neville echoed the sentiment, describing the performance as a
defensive masterclassand drawing comparisons to the tactical compactness associated with Jose Mourinho's most organised sides.
Rice's record under Arteta
The statistics underscore Rice's importance to Arteta's project. Under the Spanish manager, Arsenal have won 81 per cent of league games in which they have opened the scoring—a testament to their mastery of protecting a lead. Rice's role as the fulcrum of that defensive structure cannot be overstated.
Carragher's assessment of Rice as a world-class talent reflects the midfielder's trajectory since joining Arsenal. His ability to shield the defence, break up opposition play and initiate attacks from deep has become central to the Gunners' identity under Arteta.
Context and momentum
The victory carries added significance given the circumstances surrounding it. Liverpool entered the match on a five-match unbeaten run in all competitions, while Arsenal were looking to respond to a shock Carabao Cup exit. The manner in which Arteta's side rose to the challenge underlines their champion mentality.
Arsenal's defensive resilience was further highlighted by additional chances created. Florian Wirtz hit the woodwork with a free kick, while Alisson Becker later made a one-handed save to deny Christos Tzolis a second Arsenal goal.
The victory represents a watershed moment for Arteta's project. Nine games into the season, Arsenal's title defence is proceeding exactly as planned, with the manager having recently entered what many describe as the dynasty phase of his tenure at the club.
What comes next
Arsenal are scheduled to visit Slavia Prague in the Champions League on 4 November, offering little time for recovery but an opportunity to maintain their momentum across all competitions.
