Liverpool come from behind twice as Salah’s late goal denies Arsenal victory at the Emirates
In a high-stakes showdown at the Emirates Stadium, Mohamed Salah’s late strike rescued Liverpool in a 2-2 thriller against Arsenal. Salah’s equalizer in the 81st minute capped off a determined comeback after the Gunners had twice taken the lead, with both teams fighting to keep pace with Manchester City in the title race.
Arsenal started strong, with Bukayo Saka—whose fitness had been uncertain—striking a superb solo goal past Liverpool’s Caoimhín Kelleher in the ninth minute. Liverpool responded quickly as Virgil van Dijk, marking his 100th appearance as captain, headed home from a set-piece to level the score just nine minutes later. However, Arsenal maintained control, reclaiming the lead before halftime when Mikel Merino scored his first goal for the club from Declan Rice’s precise free kick.
The second half saw Arsenal struggle with injuries, losing Gabriel and Jurrien Timber, which allowed Liverpool to push forward and level in the final minutes with Salah finishing a pass from Darwin Nunez. The draw keeps Liverpool in second place, one point behind City, while Arsenal rises to third but remains four points off the top.
Both teams now shift focus to the League Cup, with Arsenal visiting Preston and Liverpool facing Brighton on Wednesday. Arsenal’s injury concerns have been significant, yet Saka and Timber managed to start the game, and Saka’s impactful performance—including his 50th Premier League goal for the club—proved vital.
Player of the Match: Bukayo Saka (Arsenal)
Saka’s brilliant goal and leadership gave Arsenal the early edge, underscoring why he’s a key player in Arteta’s squad. Though he tired in the second half, Saka’s contribution showed why he remains crucial for Arsenal against top competition.
Player Ratings
Arsenal: Raya 7, Partey 7, White 8, Gabriel 8, Timber 8, Rice 8, Merino 8, Trossard 7, Saka 9, Martinelli 8, Havertz 8. Subs: Kiwior 6, Lewis-Skelly 5, Nwaneri n/a, Jesus n/a.
Liverpool: Kelleher 7, Alexander-Arnold 6, Konate 7, van Dijk 7, Robertson 6, Mac Allister 5, Gravenberch 6, Jones 7, Salah 7, Diaz 5, Nunez 6. Subs: Szoboszlai 7, Gakpo 6, Tsimikas 7, Endo n/a.
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