Eberechi Eze scored his first Premier League goal for Arsenal against his former club Crystal Palace on Sunday, sealing a 1-0 win that strengthened the Gunners’ position at the summit by four points.
Oliver Glasner’s Palace arrived at the Emirates with an attacking reputation, boasting the most shots on target, highest expected goals, and most big chances in the league.
Yet, Arsenal’s organisation and efficiency once again made the difference in a match that rarely thrilled but proved decisive in the title race.
The first half followed a predictable pattern. Arsenal dominated possession while Palace sought to counter swiftly. Despite having 84 per cent of the ball in the opening quarter of an hour, Arsenal struggled to create clear chances.
Palace, meanwhile, threatened sporadically through Ismaila Sarr and Daniel Muñoz, though neither managed to beat David Raya.
The breakthrough came in the 39th minute from a familiar Arsenal strength. Declan Rice delivered a deep free kick which was recycled into the box, and Eze, reacting instinctively, volleyed home from close range. The goal was Arsenal’s 11th from a set-piece this season, underlining their growing effectiveness in dead-ball situations.
Gabriel Magalhães came close to doubling the lead early in the second half when his header struck the crossbar. Arsenal then tightened their grip, reducing Palace to speculative efforts and limiting their counter-attacking threat.
As the game wore on, Mikel Arteta’s side controlled proceedings with measured patience, while Palace’s belief gradually ebbed away. The visitors pushed forward in the closing stages but could not find an equaliser.
It was far from Arsenal’s most fluent display, yet the result reflected a mature side capable of grinding out victories when not at their best. For Eze, it was a statement moment against his old club.
