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KAI HAVERTZ scored his 12th goal of the season, leading Arsenal to a 1-0 win against Ipswich at the Emirates, securing the second spot in the league standings.
The German’s goal from close range finally broke the deadlock, reducing the deficit to Premier League leaders Liverpool to just six points.
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Mikel Arteta’s squad started energetically, applying constant pressure on Ipswich’s defense, who failed to register a single touch in the opposing penalty area during the first half.
The crucial question leading up to the game was how Arsenal would adjust without Bukayo Saka, who has been involved in 28 goals this year.
Nonetheless, Havertz, who fluidly moved across the field, made a significant impact by scoring his 24th goal contribution of the season in the 23rd minute.
An anticipated resurgence from Ipswich in the second half kept the home fans on edge, yet the match ultimately ended in a 1-0 win for Arsenal.
Here’s how SunSport’s Katherine Walsh assessed the Arsenal players at the Emirates Stadium…
David Raya – 5
Found himself isolated, almost feeling the chill standing at his goal-line for much of the first half due to his teammates controlling 84 percent of possession.
He finally touched the ball on the 31-minute mark but was called into action more frequently as Ipswich pressed in the second half.
Jurrien Timber – 6
Thrilled the crowd with a fantastic run through midfield in the 19th minute, although his weak long-range shot was comfortably saved by Muric.
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He showed great freedom to push forward, cutting inside from full-back to drive forward effectively.
William Saliba – 7
Joined Gabriel in maintaining a high defensive line throughout the match, positioning themselves close to Muric’s area for most of the first half.
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The French defender performed excellently against a formidable Liam Delap.
Gabriel – 8
Had a stellar game as he completed a full 90 minutes for the first time since facing Crystal Palace.
He provided consistent pressure in the opposition box during set-pieces but missed a clear chance following a Rice corner in the 64th minute.
Myles Lewis-Skelly – 7
His performances continue to impress game after game. His ability to navigate with a low center of gravity makes him hard to dispossess.
A poorly judged clearance allowed Ipswich a brief period of possession just before the hour mark.
The 18-year-old faced the physical play from Ipswich’s Delap and Kalvin Phillips well.
Declan Rice – 7
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Playing in a defensive No. 6 position, Rice advanced rapidly.
His energetic play and ability to win a crucial free-kick near the penalty area enhanced the team’s offense.
Kai Havertz – 8
Returned to play a midfield role in the absence of Saka after primarily being deployed as a forward this season.
The German demonstrated his skills in an ideal center-forward position by netting the opening goal just 23 minutes in.
Arteta might have discovered a powerful combination moving forward, as Havertz toggles between the No. 9 role during this challenging period without Saka.
Martin Odegaard – 6
A match that didn’t quite showcase the Arsenal captain’s brilliance, featuring some unusual errors, including an inaccurate pass early on.
His performance lacked the usual sharpness, potentially due to Saka’s absence.
Gabriel Martinelli – 6
Fans watched closely as the winger took over Saka’s position on the right wing.
Although the Brazilian may not provide the same directness, his contributions and understanding with Jesus were evident.
He played a vital role in the buildup to Havertz’s goal by providing the assist through a cross to Trossard.
Leandro Trossard – 7
Beginning on the left wing, he kept the offensive push alive by slipping past Ben Johnson to create an excellent opportunity for Havertz’s 12th goal of the season.
Throughout the match, Trossard consistently challenged Ipswich’s Johnson with his direct running and relentless work ethic.
Gabriel Jesus – 5
After a strong scoring performance last week, Jesus appeared keen to keep up that momentum.
However, he struggled with his timing and was caught offside in the 34th minute after making a break. His frustration was clear upon being substituted with 20 minutes left to play.
Subs
Mikel Merino (Jesus ’73) – 6
The Spanish midfielder came on to solidify Arsenal’s control as Ipswich started to gain momentum.
Thomas Partey (Rice ’83) – N/A
Unused
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