Liverpool maintained their perfect start to the Premier League season with a dramatic 1-0 victory over Arsenal at Anfield, secured by a stunning late free-kick from Dominik Szoboszlai.
The Hungarian midfielder struck in the 83rd minute to hand the reigning champions their third consecutive win and keep them at the top of the table.
The clash between last season’s champions and runners-up had been a cagey affair for long spells, with both sides cancelling each other out.
Arsenal’s early game plan was disrupted when William Saliba was forced off injured in the opening minutes, but Mikel Arteta’s team defended resolutely and frustrated the hosts for much of the match.
Chances were scarce until the final stages, with Arsenal introducing Eberechi Eze to inject creativity. Liverpool, however, grew in belief and eventually broke the deadlock through a moment of brilliance.
Szoboszlai’s swerving free-kick left Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya rooted as the ball dipped into the net, sparking wild celebrations among the home supporters.
Arsenal pressed for an equaliser in a frantic finale, including a VAR check for handball against Szoboszlai following a long throw-in, but no penalty was awarded.
Substitute Max Dowman, came close to a fairytale moment when his late effort was blocked. Despite their pressure, the visitors could not find a way past Alisson and Liverpool’s determined backline.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta admitted that his team needs to find a way to win big matches.
“I am very disappointed with the result. I’m very proud of my players. Both [sets of] players had to dig in to a level where there was nothing between the two. It was going to be decided by an individual error or a moment of magic. At the end of the game, I said we have to find a way to win these big matches.” Arteta said.
For Liverpool, the result means nine points from their opening three games, strengthening their position as early title favourites. Arsenal, meanwhile, will be left reflecting on a performance where their discipline and organisation were undone by one flash of brilliance.
