Eberechi Eze scored the decisive goal as Arsenal beat Crystal Palace 1–0 at the Emirates Stadium, sending the Gunners four points clear at the top of the Premier League table.
It was a special moment for Eze, who joined Arsenal in a £67.5 million summer move from Palace. The midfielder struck late in the first half, meeting Declan Rice’s free-kick with a clean first-time finish that sent the home crowd into raptures.
Liverpool’s loss to Brentford the previous night opened the door for Mikel Arteta’s side to extend their lead, and Eze’s goal ensured they took full advantage.
Arsenal struggled to create clear chances early on, with Palace defending resolutely. Leandro Trossard forced a save from Dean Henderson before Eze finally broke the deadlock.
After the break, Arsenal pressed for a second. Gabriel Magalhães saw a header crash off the bar, while Bukayo Saka and Trossard both went close. Despite their dominance, the hosts had to settle for a single-goal victory, sealing a crucial three points in their title push.
Eze, who received a standing ovation when substituted late on, was the difference in a match that keeps Arsenal’s dream of a first league title since 2004 firmly alive.
@ The Guardian.