The Gunners outclassed Liverpool during a tense encounter at Emirates Stadium, significantly reducing the Reds’ lead at the top of the Premier League to just two points. There were joyous scenes at the final whistle as Arsenal handed Liverpool only their second league defeat this season.
Arsenal took the lead in the 14th minute when Bukayo Saka scored after a rebound from a save by Liverpool’s goalkeeper Alisson. However, a defensive mishap allowed Liverpool to equalize just before halftime through an own goal by Gabriel.
Arsenal restored their lead in the 67th minute, with a goal from Gabriel Martinelli following another error from Alisson and Virgil van Dijk. The Gunners further capitalized on Liverpool’s mistakes with a third goal scored by Leandro Trossard in the stoppage time.
This victory is crucial for Arsenal’s title hopes, as it comes after the team’s loss to Liverpool in the FA Cup third-round. Leading the charge was the exciting Martinelli, who not only scored but was a constant threat to Liverpool. Equally impressive was Declan Rice, who was strong in midfield.
On the other hand, Liverpool’s performance was below par, lacking their usual spark. Despite still being at the top of the table, the team underperformed and missed the opportunity to kill off Arsenal’s title challenge. Notably, the absence of Mohamed Salah, who is away at the Africa Cup Of Nations and sustained a hamstring injury, may have been a contributing factor to Liverpool’s poor performance.
