at the Emirates Stadium. Both title contenders came into the fixture missing key players, adding to the high-stakes drama as Manchester City moved to the top of the league.
Toe-to-Toe Battle
Arsenal faced Liverpool without key players, including center back William Saliba (suspended), playmaker Martin Odegaard, and Riccardo Calafiori (both injured). Liverpool, on the other hand, were missing star goalkeeper Alisson Becker and forward Diogo Jota.
Despite these absences, Arsenal struck first just nine minutes in, with Ben White’s long pass setting up Bukayo Saka, who skillfully dribbled past Andy Robertson and scored the ball over Caoimhin Kelleher. Liverpool responded quickly; in the 18th minute, Virgil Van Dijk powered home the equalizer. Arsenal regained the lead before halftime when Declan Rice’s free-kick found Mikel Merino, who netted the Gunners’ second goal.
Injury-Hit Second Half
Arsenal’s injury woes continued in the second half, with Gabriel Magalhaes leaving in the 54th minute, followed by Jurrien Timber in the 76th. Liverpool capitalized on Arsenal’s weakened defense; in the 81st minute, Trent Alexander-Arnold sent a lobbed pass to Darwin Nunez, who set up Mohamed Salah for the equalizer. The match concluded at 2-2, with Liverpool content to leave with a point from the Emirates.
As the game stood at full-time, Liverpool dropped to second place with 22 points, behind Manchester City’s 23, while Arsenal hold third place with 18 points.
EFL Cup Action Up Next
Both teams now turn their attention to the EFL Cup fourth round on October 30, where Liverpool will face Brighton and Hove Albion, while Arsenal takes on Preston North End.
