Arsenal Edge Past Hull as Ødegaard Spares Blushes

Arsenal moved six points clear at the top of the Premier League with a 1-0 win over Hull City at the Emirates Stadium on Saturday, but the scoreline flattered the hosts. Martin Ødegaard's 72nd-minute rebound, after Hull goalkeeper Konstantinos Tzolakis saved Noni Madueke's shot, was enough to break a stubborn resistance that had frustrated Mikel Arteta's side for over an hour.

The numbers paint a picture of dominance without penetration. Arsenal enjoyed 67 per cent possession and registered 21 shots to Hull's seven, but only one big chance was created. Their expected goals (xG) of 1.08 was well below their average of 1.79 across earlier 2026/27 matches in all competitions. Hull, meanwhile, managed just 0.34 xG and two shots on target, yet defended resolutely in a 5-3-2 formation that stifled Arsenal's creativity.

This was not an isolated struggle. Arsenal have now won nine of their 10 league matches, but the attacking fluency that characterised their earlier performances has occasionally given way to a reliance on late goals against lesser opposition. The difference is that Hull, winless in the league since August, offered little going forward but almost held on for a point.

Arsenal were also controversially denied a penalty following a VAR check when Havertz was adjudged offside as his shirt was pulled by Nobel Mendy.

What Arsenal lack in attacking efficiency, they compensate for with a league-best defensive record.

Hull's game plan was clear: sit deep, frustrate, and hope for a set-piece or a mistake. They nearly succeeded.

For Arsenal, the six-point cushion before Manchester City faced Nottingham Forest was the main positive. But the performance will have done little to silence those who wonder whether this title chase is built on fine margins. Arteta's side have the points, but the process is not always convincing.

The league table looks healthy, but the warning signs are there.