Arsenal secured a 1-0 victory against Ipswich Town, moving into second place in the Premier League and reducing Liverpool’s lead to six points. This match marked Arsenal's first game without Bukayo Saka, who is expected to be sidelined for several weeks due to a hamstring injury.
Kai Havertz scored the only goal of the match, although Arsenal struggled to convert their dominance into a more decisive scoreline. Manager Mikel Arteta expressed concerns that the team's lack of a clinical goalscorer could hinder their chances of winning a league title for the first time in over 20 years.
In Saka's absence, Gabriel Martinelli started in his usual right-wing position, while Gabriel Jesus remained in the forward role after a strong performance in previous matches. Despite controlling possession, Arsenal had limited clear chances until the final quarter of the game.
Arteta acknowledged the need for improvement despite the win, praising Ipswich's organization while noting that his team restricted them to minimal opportunities. Havertz opened the scoring in the 23rd minute, converting a low cross from Leandro Trossard for his 12th goal of the season.
Jesus had another goal disallowed for off-side, and Arsenal's set-piece effectiveness was evident, though they failed to capitalize on several opportunities, including a header from Gabriel Magalhaes that hit the post.
As Ipswich pressed for an equalizer in the second half, Arsenal's Martin Odegaard briefly raised concerns after going down with an ankle issue but quickly recovered. He later made a notable run, forcing a save from Ipswich's goalkeeper Arijanet Muric.
Despite some late chances for both teams, Arsenal held on for the win, climbing above Nottingham Forest and Chelsea in the standings. Ipswich remains in the relegation zone, three points from safety.
In another match, Brighton failed to capitalize on an opportunity to move closer to the top five, drawing 0-0 at home against Brentford. The Seagulls are now winless in their last six matches but remain two points ahead of Brentford, who secured just their second away point of the season.
Scores - December 27:
Arsenal 1-0 Ipswich Town
Brighton 0-0 Brentford
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