Kai Havertz Lifts Arsenal to 1-0 Win Over Ipswich

Kai Havertz scored a 23rd-minute goal to give Arsenal a narrow 1-0 victory over a resolute Ipswich Town, moving the Gunners to second place in the Premier League. Leandro Trossard delivered a precise cross from the left, allowing Havertz to finish easily from close range. This moment proved decisive in a game where Arsenal dominated possession. The Gunners controlled 83.5% of the ball in the first half and kept Ipswich pinned back.

Declan Rice curled an effort just over the bar from the edge of the box while Gabriel Jesus found the net but the officials ruled his goal offside. Despite their dominance, Arsenal missed opportunities to increase their lead with Gabriel Magalhães and Kai Havertz failing to convert promising chances. Ipswich sitting second-bottom in the league, approached the second half with more attacking intent but struggled to break through Arsenal’s defense.

William Saliba and Gabriel effectively shut down Ipswich’s efforts and Liam Delap leading the line for the visitors, lacked the necessary support to trouble the hosts. Arsenal held their advantage comfortably until the final whistle. Without Bukayo Saka, sidelined for over two months with a hamstring injury, Arsenal adjusted by placing Gabriel Martinelli on the right wing. Martinelli contributed to the buildup for the winning goal but Arsenal missed Saka’s creativity and struggled to create clear-cut chances.

Manager Mikel Arteta, working with one of the league’s thinnest squads included mostly defenders and defensive midfielders on the bench, reflecting the team’s ongoing injury challenges. The victory keeps Arsenal’s unbeaten home record intact and moves them within six points of leaders Liverpool. With Brentford next on New Year’s Day, Arteta draws encouragement from his team’s composure and control as they continue their pursuit of a first league title since 2004.