Liverpool vs Arsenal at Anfield on Sunday. They famously blew a 2-0 lead and famously wound up winning 3-2. This match was particularly poignant for Liverpool. After all, they had just won their record-equalling 20th English title just two weeks prior.
Liverpool came into the match with a stranglehold on 83 points from 36 matches and needed to bolster their title credentials even more. Cody Gakpo opened the scoring with a towering header, Luis Diaz doubling up just 90 seconds later — turning the contest suddenly into a 2-0 rout.
Even after their blistering opening pace, the game turned in a way nobody could have expected after the break. The Arsenal captain, Martin Odegaard, came close to making it 2-1 when his whistling effort hit the frame of the goal, preserving Liverpool’s two-goal advantage. In the 70th minute, Mikel Merino latched onto a rebound and scored the winner for Arsenal. This goal turned the tide and brought the game back to 2-2.
The game continued to be heated as Liverpool roused their passion. The hosts believed they had snatched a dramatic late winner when Andy Robertson fired in from close range on 91 minutes. Her joy was short-lived as VAR ruled the goal out for a foul in the build-up. Earlier in the contest, Diaz had a screamer that Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya saved spectacularly. Raya further showcased his talents when he tipped Curtis Jones’ effort around the post.
Just a few days later, Liverpool were hit by another blow when right back Trent Alexander-Arnold decided to leave the club. This might explain why he will be leaving at the end of the season. His choice triggered loud boos that echoed among the home fans. They felt disappointed by the circumstances surrounding his intentions to leave on a free transfer. Despite this cloud hanging over them, Liverpool displayed a determined performance in the first half, showcasing their intent to set a precedent for the coming season.
Meanwhile, Eddie Howe’s Newcastle United leapfrogged Manchester City into third place in the standings, putting pressure on Arsenal, who remain in second place with 68 points. The tie with Liverpool leaves Arsenal still chasing guaranteed Champions League qualification for the campaign to come. They still need to win a top-five finish.
As the match went on, Merino’s opening goal appeared to galvanize Arsenal. Only nine minutes later he was sent off after lunging at Dominik Szoboszlai. This irresponsible challenge reduced Arsenal to just ten men on the pitch. This dismissal only served to enrich the drama in what had already become a riveting match.
