Arsenal, fourth in the Premier League, 9 points behind leader Liverpool before the match, knew that the title race remained uncertain, especially since the Gunners had already failed four times in this quest after being left behind at Christmas. Despite their 5-1 win over Crystal Palace on December 21, Bukayo Saka’s injury worried Mikel Arteta ahead of a busy schedule. The victory against Ipswich therefore seemed essential to stay in the game. For their part, Ipswich Town, beaten 4-0 by Newcastle the previous weekend, faced an Arsenal team undefeated at home this season. The Tractor Boys, although better away than at home, had not won against the Gunners since 1979. And that was still not the case this evening.
Arsenal
1
23′
K. Havertz
Ipswich
0
finished
Quickly, the Gunners managed to create a few chances, with immense ball possession of around 91% in the first 20 minutes. In a more than favorable phase of play, Arsenal therefore unlocked the counters, thanks to Kai Havertz. On a nice pass from Leandro Trossard, lined up this evening at Saka’s position, the German player only had to finish (23rd, 1-0) in front of the opponent’s goal. Gabriel Jesus subsequently had the opportunity to make the break (35th), but his achievement was ultimately invalidated for offside.
Arsenal settle for the minimum
Returning from the locker room, Arsenal continued to push to try to gain the lead on the scoreboard. Thus, Gabriel Jesus quickly stood out on a corner and tried his luck, but his recovery narrowly missed the right post (63rd). Martin Odegaard then stood out with a good individual effort, but his shot into the right corner was repelled by Arijanet Muric, well placed (74th). The score remains unchanged until the final whistle.
This victory allows Mikel Arteta’s men to take 2nd place in the Premier League standings. The club, however, remains 4 units behind Liverpool, solid leader. For its part, Ipswich continues to descend into the abyss of the English championship. The Tractor Boys are in 19th place with 12 points. They will have to try at all costs to bring back points against Chelsea and Fulham in their next two matches.
