Arsenal secured a well-deserved victory at Goodison Park, defeating Everton and extending their unbeaten start to the Premier League season. It was a match that showcased Mikel Arteta’s tactical prowess, as his team outplayed the Toffees throughout the game.
From the onset, Everton made it clear that they were going to adopt a defensive approach. They aimed to stifle Arsenal’s attacking threat and hold on for a draw. However, their plans were almost derailed when Gabriel Martinelli scored what seemed like the opening goal just 20 minutes into the match. Unfortunately for Martinelli, VAR intervened and ruled the goal offside due to a questionable decision against Eddie Nketiah in the build-up.
Despite Everton’s resolute defending, they offered little going forward. The first half ended with the scoreline still level, giving the Toffees some hope of securing a point against the Gunners. The break provided an opportunity for Arsenal to regroup and come up with a plan to break the deadlock.
The second half started with a scare for Everton, as Martin Ødegaard tested Jordan Pickford with a powerful shot. However, the Toffees managed to hold on, reaching the hour mark with their clean sheet intact. Sensing the need for a breakthrough, Arteta introduced Dominic Calvert-Lewin into the game in a bid to secure all three points.
It was Arsenal, though, who found the breakthrough they were looking for. A slick passing move on the edge of the Everton penalty area culminated in Bukayo Saka delivering a precise cut-back for Leandro Trossard to calmly slot home. The relief was evident on Arteta’s face as his beleaguered team celebrated the goal.
Everton’s response was lackluster, to say the least. With just two league goals before this match, their attacking impotence was a glaring issue. As a result, Arsenal comfortably saw out the rest of the game, securing another away win and maintaining the pressure on league leaders Manchester City.
This victory for Arsenal marks their first win at Goodison Park since October 2017, highlighting the progress Arteta has made with the team. The Gunners’ unbeaten start to the season is a testament to their improved performances and the manager’s ability to instill a winning mentality.