Arsenal player ratings vs Liverpool: 9/10 Declan Rice inspires Gunners to historic Anfield victory

Arsenal secured a precious 1-0 victory over Liverpool at Anfield on Sunday, November 1, to move to the top of the Premier League table. Kai Havertz scored the decisive goal after a brilliant contribution from Declan Rice, whose outstanding display helped the visitors withstand sustained Liverpool pressure.

The result also ended Arsenal’s wait for a league victory at Anfield dating back to 2012, with Manchester City’s defeat to Brighton on Saturday providing an additional boost.

Arsenal player ratings

David Raya – 6/10

The Spaniard was occasionally unreliable with his distribution but remained relatively comfortable between the posts. Liverpool’s attacking pressure did not translate into enough serious attempts to trouble him.

Jurrien Timber – 7/10

Timber delivered a disciplined defensive performance, although he was fortunate to escape punishment for a first-half shirt pull on Alexander Isak. He remained dependable throughout.

Ezri Konsa – 5/10

Konsa struggled with his control after Arsenal took the lead and required Rice’s intervention to prevent a dangerous situation. He was also involved in a penalty-area controversy.

Gabriel – 7/10

The Brazilian produced a solid defensive display, standing firm against Liverpool’s attacking threats. He helped Arsenal maintain their organisation during difficult spells.

Riccardo Calafiori – 7/10

Calafiori was restricted from making his usual attacking contributions but performed effectively defensively. He dealt well with Cody Gakpo and later Rio Ngumoha.

Declan Rice – 9/10

Rice was Arsenal’s outstanding performer, providing the assist for Havertz’s winner with an excellent run and low delivery. He also rescued Konsa with a crucial interception.

Bruno Guimaraes – 7/10

Guimaraes worked tirelessly in midfield and produced an important defensive intervention to deny Bradley Barcola inside Arsenal’s penalty area. His contribution helped protect the advantage.

Martin Odegaard – 5/10

The Arsenal captain struggled to influence proceedings and failed to establish control in midfield. His creativity was limited as Liverpool dictated much of the contest.

Noni Madueke – 6/10

Madueke showed composure when carrying possession but found it difficult to create meaningful attacking opportunities. He was also involved in a heated confrontation with Alexis Mac Allister.

Kai Havertz – 8/10

Havertz rewarded Arteta’s decision to restore him to the starting lineup by scoring the decisive goal. His intelligent positioning and movement also caused problems for Liverpool’s defenders.

Christos Tzolis – 5/10

Returning to the starting eleven after missing six matches through injury, Tzolis struggled to make a significant impact. His best moment was a curling effort that forced an excellent Alisson save.

Substitutes

Myles Lewis-Skelly (62′) – 6/10

Lewis-Skelly entered to strengthen Arsenal’s possession and help protect their lead. He played his part in ensuring the visitors secured all three points.

Piero Hincapie (84′) – N/A

Hincapie came on during the closing stages as Arteta looked to reinforce his defence. He had limited time to influence the contest.

Viktor Gyokeres (84′) – N/A

Gyokeres was introduced late in the game as Arsenal sought fresh attacking energy. He had little opportunity to make a noticeable contribution.

Mikel Merino (88′) – N/A

Merino replaced a teammate in the final minutes, helping Arsenal manage the closing stages of their important victory.