Arsenal secured three crucial points in the league, beating Hull City 1-0 at the Emirates Stadium with a minimal victory. Decisive for Mikel Arteta’s side was captain Martin Odegaard, who scored the only goal of the match in the 72nd minute.
The Londoners did not have an easy time of it, as Hull City proved a difficult opponent, defending well and allowing the hosts little space. In the first half, Arsenal struggled to create clear chances, while an incident involving Kai Havertz sparked controversy. The German had a penalty disallowed after VAR intervention, as an offside position was identified in the build-up play.
In the second half, Arteta changed the tempo of the game through substitutions, bringing on Viktor Gyokeres, Mikel Merino and Eberechi Eze. Arsenal’s pressure was rewarded in the 72nd minute when, after a shot by Noni Madueke and a save by the opposing goalkeeper, Odegaard took advantage of the rebound and sent it into the net.
For the Norwegian midfielder, this was his fifth goal of the season, a sign of his importance to the team’s objectives.
With this win, Arsenal go into the international break at the top of the Premier League, continuing their race for the title.
Meanwhile, Tottenham suffered a disappointing 1-0 defeat away to Leeds United. Noah Okafor scored in the 79th minute, giving the home side the win.