Arsenal clinched a vital 1-0 victory over Everton in a tense Premier League clash. The Gunners displayed a strong performance, hitting the post twice but ultimately finding the breakthrough to secure a crucial win.
Viktor Gyokeres’ clinical first-half penalty was enough to earn Arsenal a 1-0 victory against Everton, ensuring Mikel Arteta’s side remains at the top of the Premier League table for Christmas.
Arsenal Player Ratings
David Raya (7): The Spanish goalkeeper enjoyed a relatively quiet evening at the Hill Dickinson Stadium as Everton’s attack struggled to create clear-cut openings. While he was alert to gather a few dangerous crosses from Jack Grealish and Dwight McNeil, he was rarely forced into any acrobatic saves, providing a steady and composed presence that helped Arsenal secure a clean sheet on the road.
Jurrien Timber (8): Displaying his versatility once again, Timber was exceptional in both defensive duels and supporting the attack. He combined brilliantly with the midfield to launch several forward surges and was instrumental in the passage of play that saw Arsenal strike the woodwork. His defensive positioning was flawless, nullifying Everton’s threat on the break and proving why he has become indispensable to the backline.
William Saliba (7): The Frenchman was typically unflappable, handling the physicality of Thierno Barry with intelligence and strength. Although he was involved in a tight VAR check for a potential foul in the area, the decision went his way, reflecting a performance that was professional and disciplined. He ensured the defensive line remained high and organized throughout the ninety minutes.
Piero Hincapie (7): The Ecuadorian continues to rack up minutes in the absence of Gabriel. Didn’t do any wrong on the night and played his part to ensure the one-goal was enough to win the match in a tough ground.
Riccardo Calafiori (7): Returning to the starting lineup after suspension, Calafiori brought aggression and technical quality to the left side of the defense. He was proactive in winning back possession and looked comfortable bringing the ball out from deep to start transitions. Despite a few moments of pressure from the Everton wingers, he stood his ground and contributed significantly to the shut-out.
Martin Zubimendi (6): The summer arrival produced an all-action performance in the heart of the midfield. He was unlucky not to score when his powerful second-half drive cannoned off the upright, but his primary contribution was his elite reading of the game. On more than one occasion, he tracked back to stifle Everton counters, showing exactly why Arteta fought so hard for his signature.
Declan Rice (7): Rice was the engine room for the Gunners, covering vast amounts of ground and breaking up Everton’s attempts to build momentum. His set-piece deliveries were a constant source of anxiety for the hosts, and his ability to transition the ball quickly into the final third kept the Toffees under persistent pressure. It was a mature display that anchored the midfield effectively.
Martin Odegaard (7): Celebrating his manager’s anniversary, the captain was the creative hub of the team. His intricate passing and vision allowed Arsenal to maintain dominance in the middle of the park, and he was involved in nearly every dangerous move. Although he was substituted late for Mikel Merino, his influence on the game’s tempo was clear to see.
Bukayo Saka (7): While closely guarded by Mykolenko for much of the night, Saka still found ways to impact the game. His link-up play with Odegaard created several half-chances, and he remained a constant threat that pinned the Everton defense back. Despite suffering a minor knock late in the game, his work rate and persistence were vital to the win.
Leandro Trossard (7): Starting in the front three, Trossard was incredibly unfortunate not to find the scoresheet when his curling effort struck the post in the 64th minute. His intelligent movement between the lines caused constant headaches for the Everton defenders, and he linked up seamlessly with Gyokeres and Saka to keep the attack fluid and unpredictable.
Viktor Gyokeres (8): The Swedish striker proved to be the match-winner, showing great composure to smash home his 26th-minute penalty after a handball in the box. Beyond the goal, his hold-up play was excellent, providing a physical focal point that allowed Arsenal’s creative players to flourish. It was a clinical performance that saw him register his seventh goal for the club.