Eberechi Eze marked his first Premier League goal for Arsenal with a decisive strike against former club Crystal Palace, as the Gunners claimed a 1-0 win at the Emirates Stadium on Sunday. The result strengthened Arsenal’s position at the top of the table and capitalised on defeats for title rivals Liverpool and Manchester City.
The £60 million summer signing from Palace broke the deadlock late in the first half, converting from close range after Gabriel Magalhães headed down Declan Rice’s free-kick. It was Arsenal’s 11th goal from a set piece this season the most across Europe’s top five leagues underlining their growing reputation as “Set-Piece FC.”
The victory was Arsenal’s seventh in nine league games, leaving them four points ahead of second-placed Bournemouth, six clear of Manchester City, and seven ahead of Liverpool. Mikel Arteta’s side, unbeaten in all competitions since August, continue to look like genuine title contenders as they chase a first Premier League crown since 2004.
Despite early pressure from Palace with Jean-Philippe Mateta and Ismaila Sarr both threatening Arsenal quickly took control of possession. Their patience paid off in the 39th minute when Eze guided home a composed finish past Dean Henderson. The midfielder’s muted celebration reflected respect for his former club, drawing applause from both sets of fans.
After the break, Gabriel came close to doubling Arsenal’s lead, hitting the crossbar before Rice’s follow-up effort was denied. Bukayo Saka also narrowly missed with a curling shot from the edge of the box, as Arsenal continued to dominate play.
The only concern for Arteta came in the form of injuries, with William Saliba forced off at halftime and Declan Rice limping out midway through the second half.
The clean sheet Arsenal’s tenth in 13 matches across all competitions highlighted the defensive discipline that has underpinned their strong start to the season.
With rock legend Jon Bon Jovi among the spectators, Eze’s composed display and crucial goal sealed a symbolic win for the Gunners, who look increasingly capable of ending their two-decade wait for a Premier League title.
As the Emirates crowd rose in applause, even Palace supporters joined in saluting Eze a player whose class, it seems, now bridges old loyalties.
