December 20, 2025 l By Dalena Reporters
Liverpool, England — Arsenal Football Club returned to the top of the 2025–26 English Premier League table on Saturday night after grinding out a hard-fought 1–0 away victory over Everton at the Hill Dickinson Stadium. The Gunners’ slim win ensures they sit atop the league standings heading into the festive Christmas period, fending off pressure from title rivals Manchester City.
The only goal of the match came in the 27th minute, when Swedish striker Viktor Gyökeres calmly converted a penalty after Everton defender Jake O’Brien handled the ball in the penalty area during a corner situation. Gyökeres stepped up with authority and struck the ball past the Everton keeper to give Arsenal the lead.
Arsenal were otherwise limited in clear chances but maintained defensive discipline to hold on for the result. Everton, meanwhile, had their own penalty appeal waved away in the second half after William Saliba appeared to clip Thierno Barry inside the box the referee and VAR ultimately ruled there was insufficient contact for a spot-kick.
The victory sees Arsenal move two points clear of Manchester City, who had briefly overtaken them earlier in the day with a convincing 3–0 win over West Ham United. Maintaining the top spot at Christmas is seen as a key milestone in the Premier League season, though Arsenal will be aware of the historical challenge of converting early leads into a title.
For Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta, the result was a test of resilience and focus rather than attacking flair. Despite not dominating possession throughout, the Gunners showed tactical discipline and clinical execution from the penalty opportunity.
Match Summary & Team Performances
- Arsenal: Gyökeres’ goal proved decisive as Arsenal held firm against Everton’s pressure. The visitors created moments of threat, with players like Leandro Trossard and Martin Zubimendi testing the woodwork, but were unable to extend their advantage.
- Everton: David Moyes’ side battled throughout, showing fight and commitment. However, key attacking chances did not materialise, and controversial refereeing decisions particularly around penalty claims added to the Toffees’ frustrations.
Arsenal’s win means they will begin the Christmas break atop the Premier League standings a coveted position that offers momentum as the season enters its most pivotal months.
Arsenal will next compete in the Carabao Cup quarter-finals against Crystal Palace, while their Premier League campaign resumes after the festive period. Everton, sitting in mid-table, will aim to rebound when they travel to Burnley in their next league fixture.