The strike from Kai Havertz proved decisive as Arsenal secured a 1-0 victory against Ipswich, advancing to second position in the Premier League standings, while Bukayo Saka remained absent after his hamstring injury in the match against Crystal Palace last weekend.
Arsenal’s win reduced Premier League leaders Liverpool’s advantage to six points on Friday, as they capitalised on Chelsea’s unexpected 2-1 loss to Fulham on Thursday to emerge as Liverpool’s nearest rival
Saka, meanwhile, might not return until March due.
Arsenal’s manager opted to position Gabriel Martinelli on the right flank, typically occupied by Saka, whilst maintaining Gabriel Jesus as the central striker following his impressive tally of five goals in the previous two matches.

Despite controlling much of the ball, the hosts struggled to create significant opportunities until the last 15 minutes of the contest.
Arsenal experienced relief when Havertz scored at 23 minutes, following their previous frustrating 0-0 draw against Everton at the Emirates.
Havertz netted his 12th goal of the season by directing Leandro Trossard’s low cross into the upper part of the goal. But Jesus’s strike with a clever shot through Arijanet Muric’s legs from a difficult position was ruled as offside.

Despite their well-known effectiveness from set-pieces, Arsenal failed to capitalise on their corner opportunities.
Gabriel Magalhaes missed a straightforward chance when his header struck the outside of the post from close range.
Ipswich displayed increasing ambition in the latter half, which also provided Arsenal more opportunities to counter-attack.
Havertz squandered an excellent opportunity to score his second goal, whilst Muric produced another save from Mikel Merino’s effort, ensuring a tense conclusion.
Ipswich continue to occupy the penultimate position in the table, with a three-point gap separating them from safety.