Arsenal secured a 1-0 victory over Ipswich Town, with Kai Havertz netting the decisive goal, allowing the Gunners to rise to second place in the Premier League following a tight match.

**Arsenal Edge Past Ipswich in Unconvincing 1-0 Victory**

In a match that showcased Arsenal’s dominance but also their lack of cutting edge, the Gunners secured a narrow 1-0 victory over a lacklustre Ipswich Town at the Emirates Stadium. This win sees Arsenal climb back to second place in the Premier League, now six points adrift of leaders Liverpool.

Despite enjoying the lion’s share of possession from the outset, Arsenal struggled to break down a resolute Ipswich defence. It wasn’t until the 23rd minute that they finally found a way through, with Kai Havertz volleying home from close range after Leandro Trossard had picked up a loose ball and delivered a precise cross into the six-yard box.

Chances were few and far between for the hosts, and it wasn’t until after the interval that they created their next significant opportunity. Gabriel, however, squandered a golden chance, heading wide from a corner when he should have done better.

As the match progressed, Mikel Arteta’s side began to find their rhythm, with Martin Ødegaard and Declan Rice both coming close to extending the lead. The closing stages saw further opportunities for substitute Mikel Merino and Ødegaard, but Arsenal ultimately settled for a 1-0 win. This result extends their unbeaten run to 11 matches, while Ipswich, who failed to register a single shot on target, have now lost five of their last six outings.

**Talking Point: Arsenal’s Struggles Without Saka**

The absence of Bukayo Saka, sidelined for several weeks due to a hamstring injury, was keenly felt by Arsenal. The young winger’s attacking flair is irreplaceable, and his lack of presence was evident as the Gunners struggled to create the volume of chances one would expect against a struggling side like Ipswich.

Leandro Trossard, stepping in for Saka, provided the assist for Havertz’s goal, but the overall pace and directness of the Arsenal attack were noticeably diminished without the England international’s influence.

**Player of the Match: Martin Ødegaard**

Martin Ødegaard was the standout performer for Arsenal, showcasing his class throughout the match. The 26-year-old midfielder was at the heart of nearly every attacking move, whether initiating the play or providing the final touch. His creativity and vision were crucial in a game where Arsenal struggled to find their rhythm. It’s no surprise that Ødegaard has lost just one of his last 21 appearances for the club, highlighting his importance to the team.

**Player Ratings**

**Arsenal:**
Raya 6; Timber 7, Saliba 7, Gabriel 7, Lewis-Skelly 7; Ødegaard 8, Rice 7, Havertz 7; Trossard 6, Jesus 6, Martinelli 6. Subs: Merino 7, Partey n/a

**Ipswich:**
Muric 6; O’Shea 6, Woolfenden 6, Greaves 6, Davis 6; Johnson 6, Phillips 6, Hutchinson 6, Cajuste 6, Szmodics 6; Delap 6. Subs: Jack Clarke 6, Al Hamadi n/a, Taylor n/a, Broadhead n/a, Harry Clarke n/a

**Key Moments**

**23’ GOAL! ARSENAL 1-0 IPSWICH (Kai Havertz)**
The deadlock is broken! Trossard picks up a loose ball on the left and fires it back into the six-yard box, where Havertz converts with a first-time volley. 1-0!

**63’ GABRIEL MISSES A FREE HEADER**
A perfectly executed set-piece routine sees Gabriel unmarked at the back post, but he heads wide when he should have scored.

**73’ ØDEGAARD COMES CLOSE**
The midfielder surges into the area and aims for the top corner, but Muric makes a fingertip save to deflect the ball out for a corner.

**74’ RICE DENIED!**
Odegaard’s corner finds Rice in space near the penalty area, but his powerful first-time volley is blocked by O’Shea.

**77’ MURIC DENIES MERINO**
Merino bursts into the area, but Muric pushes away his low drive. Ødegaard then sends the rebound high over the bar.

**Key Stats**
– Arsenal extend their unbeaten run to 11 matches.
– Ipswich have failed to register a shot on target in this match.
– Bukayo Saka’s absence was felt as Arsenal struggled to create chances.