What did we learn as Arsenal grind out a result against Crystal Palace?
Just like against Fulham, Arsenal secured another 1-0 victory, this time against Crystal Palace on Sunday afternoon.
Eberechi Eze’s 39th-minute goal against his former club sealed all three points for Mikel Arteta’s men, who continue to lead the Premier League table. The Gunners are now four points clear at the top of the table, six ahead of Manchester City and seven ahead of Liverpool, maintaining their status as the team to beat.
Although the result itself was crucial, some key lessons emerged from the performance.
Gabriel remains at the heart of Arsenal’s game
How would Arsenal have succeeded without Gabriel Magalhães? The Brazilian central defender was once again immense, winning the foul that led to Eze’s goal and dominating defensively throughout the match.
He was a brick wall at the back, comfortably coping with Palace attacks and even going close to goal when he hit the crossbar from a free kick in the second half.
Given his fitness issues ahead of the match, his availability proved vital. Without him, Arsenal might have struggled to contain Palace’s physical frontline.
Gabriel (Photo by Clive Mason/Getty Images)
Set pieces continue to define Arsenal’s season
The 1-0 victory over Palace came from a set-piece, as did the wins against Fulham and Manchester United. He has become a defining part of Arteta’s Arsenal.
With 11 goals from set pieces already this season, more than any other team in Europe, the Gunners have become specialists in dead ball situations. Much credit goes to Nicolas Jover, whose influence on this team cannot be overstated.
Arsenal’s ability to consistently create chances from set pieces has added another weapon to their title challenge.
Defensive brilliance leads title race
Arsenal’s defensive record continues to impress. They have now kept six clean sheets in nine Premier League matches and five consecutive shutouts in all competitions.
Their back line seems unbreakable. At this rate, Arsenal could end the season with fewer than 15 league goals conceded – a feat which would surpass Chelsea’s long-standing record.
It’s a great time to be an Arsenal fan. The Gunners are confident, efficient and consistent. If they maintain this form, Arteta’s side could finally return the Emirates to long-awaited glory.
Let’s discuss it in the comments.
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