Arsenal claimed a landmark 1-0 victory at Anfield on Sunday, their first triumph at the famous ground in 14 years, as Kai Havertz's clinical finish sent Mikel Arteta's side to the summit of the Premier League — nine points clear of Liverpool.

The win also opens up a three-point advantage over Manchester City, who sit second, as Arsenal continue to assert themselves as the dominant force in English football this season.

A defensive masterclass

For the vast majority of the contest, Liverpool controlled possession and threw wave after wave of attacks at Arsenal's backline. Andoni Iraola's side mustered 17 attempts on goal, yet not one of them required a save from goalkeeper David Raya — a staggering reflection of Arsenal's defensive organisation.

Florian Wirtz struck the crossbar with a free-kick, and Alexis Mac Allister headed over from close range while completely unmarked, but Liverpool's profligacy in front of goal proved their undoing. Former Manchester United captain Gary Neville was unequivocal in his assessment, describing the display as "a defensive masterclass from Arsenal."

Penalty controversy clouds the result

The result was not without controversy. In the first half, Jurrien Timber appeared to grab Alexander Isak's shirt — a foul the on-field officials failed to detect. The incident drew sharp criticism from Jamie Carragher, who called on VAR to "do its job." No review was triggered, and Liverpool were denied what many observers felt was a clear penalty.

Despite the debate surrounding that moment, Arsenal's victory was built on discipline, structure, and a cutting edge Liverpool could not match. Havertz's goal proved enough — and, on the balance of the contest, Arsenal's clean sheet was thoroughly merited.

With nine points now separating Arsenal from a Liverpool side that dominated proceedings but failed to register a single shot on target, Arteta's squad looks increasingly difficult to dislodge from the top of the table.