Arsenal made the most of Manchester City’s setback to close the gap at the top of the Premier League. After City suffered a 2–1 defeat away to Aston Villa, the reigning champions beat Everton 2–0 at the Emirates Stadium to move level with City on 21 points.

Arsenal started aggressively and took the lead in the seventh minute. A corner from the right caused confusion inside Everton’s defence, allowing Ezri Konsa to finish from close range. It was Konsa’s first goal for Arsenal and the club’s first set-piece goal of the season.

The hosts continued to dominate the first half, registering 13 shots and winning 10 corners before the break. However, they could not extend their lead. Everton also created opportunities to equalise, with James Garner and Tyrique George testing Arsenal’s defence, but neither could beat goalkeeper David Raya.

Arsenal maintained their attacking momentum after the interval and doubled their lead in the 68th minute. Gabriel Magalhaes found the net with a header from Ben White’s cross.

With a two-goal advantage, Arsenal controlled the closing stages of the match. Kieran Dewsbury-Hall came close with a late header, but Everton failed to reduce the deficit.

The victory takes Arsenal to 21 points from eight matches, level with Manchester City. City remain top of the table on goal difference, with Arsenal second. Everton, meanwhile, remain ninth after suffering their second consecutive defeat.

Result: Arsenal 2–0 Everton