Struggling in the first half, the Gunners responded after the break, securing a valuable draw against the Reds at Anfield and earning a crucial point in the race for the podium.
Photos : Liverpool/Arsenal/DR
Liverpool sets the pace from the start
Already crowned English champions with 82 points, Liverpool hosted Arsenal for a high-stakes showdown. The Gunners, weakened after a series of four winless matches, desperately needed to react or risk losing their position to Newcastle in the standings. From the opening minutes, the Reds asserted their dominance. Luis Díaz, already dangerous, forced David Raya into a brilliant save in the 8th minute. Moments later, Cody Gakpo opened the scoring with a precise header from a perfect Andrew Robertson cross (1-0, 20’). Arsenal barely had time to recover before Luis Díaz doubled the lead after a spectacular attacking combination (2-0, 22’). Liverpool looked unstoppable, while Arsenal seemed unable to respond.
Photos : Liverpool/Arsenal/DR
The Gunners’ reaction after the break
Returning with better intentions, Mikel Arteta’s men quickly narrowed the gap. Leandro Trossard delivered a pinpoint cross to Gabriel Martinelli, whose powerful header beat Alisson (2-1, 47’). Reinvigorated, the Gunners gradually gained confidence and fought their way back into the game. In the 70th minute, Mikel Merino took advantage of a favorable bounce to send an unstoppable header into the net, bringing Arsenal level with their opponent (2-2). However, the joy was short-lived. Ten minutes later, Arsenal’s hopes took a hit as Merino received a second yellow card, leaving his team with ten men (80’). The final minutes were tense, but Arsenal held firm, securing this valuable point.
Photos : Liverpool/Arsenal/DR
A draw that revives the battle for the podium
Thanks to this draw, Arsenal remains second with 68 points, extending their lead over Newcastle by two points. Liverpool, already crowned champions, continues to dominate the Premier League, while Arsenal will need to secure their position in the final matchdays to guarantee a spot in the Champions League. The battle promises more suspense ahead.
Photos : Liverpool/Arsenal/DR
