Eberechi Eze scored his first Premier League goal for Arsenal to secure a 1-0 victory over his former club Crystal Palace, moving Mikel Arteta's side four points clear at the top of the table. The goal came from a Declan Rice free-kick in the first half, with Eze adjusting acrobatically to fire home.
Arsenal struggled to break down a resolute Palace defence for much of the first period, with the visitors adopting a cautious 5-4-1 shape. The only clear chance before the goal fell to Leandro Trossard, whose low effort was saved by Dean Henderson.
Palace's disciplined approach unravelled when Yeremy Pino fouled Jurriën Timber near the right touchline. From the resulting free-kick, Rice delivered into the box and Eze, with both feet off the ground, struck a first-time shot that flew past Henderson.
After the break, Arsenal dominated but could not add a second. Gabriel Magalhães headed against the bar from another set-piece, and Bukayo Saka curled a follow-up just wide. Palace introduced former Arsenal striker Eddie Nketiah, but he could not inspire a comeback.
The win, combined with Liverpool's defeat at Brentford on Saturday, leaves Arsenal seven points clear of Liverpool and eight ahead of Manchester City. With nine games played, the sense is growing that this could be Arsenal's season.
