Liverpool edged out the Gunners with a brilliant second-half performance as they closed the gap to Manchester City in the title race.
Liverpool defeated Arsenal 2-0 at the Etihad Stadium on Wednesday. The rescheduled game saw the Reds continue their nine-game winning streak in the league, successfully getting past an in-form Arsenal team.
A crucial Liverpool win at Etihad!
Jurgen Klopp started Mohamed Salah on the bench in a shocking lineup decision. The German tactician used Diogo Jota alongside Luis Diaz and Sadio Mane in his lineup while keeping Salah and Roberto Firmino as possible game-changing substitutions.
Throughout the first half, it seemed that Klopp’s plans, at least his attacking tactics, were not efficient enough to challenge Arsenal’s domination. The Gunners held on to the possession while creating a few dangerous goalscoring opportunities.
However, their lack of composure in front of the goal cost them the game in the second period. Liverpool looked much-improved after the interval, keeping a higher pressing line.
Following an excellent through ball from Thiago Alcantara, Jota ran behind Arsenal’s backline before smashing the ball past Aaron Ramsdale from a tight angle.
The Portuguese forward got out of the pitch right after scoring as Klopp sent Firmino and Salah in to secure the win in the 56th minute.
Only six minutes later, Firmino doubled the Reds’ lead by converting Andrew Robertson’s inch-perfect assist into the six-yard box.
The goal was enough to end Arsenal’s hopes of a potential comeback. Mikel Arteta’s side pushed to get back into the game. However, Liverpool’s backline continued their solid performance, securing a crucial win for their side in the league’s title race.
What’s next for Arsenal and Liverpool?
Liverpool are now only one point behind Manchester City at the top of the Premier League table. On the other hand, Arsenal ramein in fourth place. But, they feel the presence of Manchester United, who lurk behind them being a point down.
Arsenal will face Aston Villa in their next league game on Saturday while Klopp’s side must prepare to meet Nottingham Forest in the FA Cup a day later.
Player Ratings
Arsenal: Ramsdale (5), Cedric (6), White (6), Gabriel (6), Tierney (6). Partey (7), Xhaka (5), Saka (5), Odegaard (6), Martinelli (7), Lacazette (6).
Bench: Pepe (5), Smith-Rowe (6), Nketiah (5).
Liverpool: Alisson (7), Alexander-Arnold (7), Matip (8), Van Dijk (6). Robertson (9), Henderson (6), Fabinho (7), Thiago (8), Diaz (6), Jota (7), Mane (6).
Bench: Jones (6), Salah (6), Firmino (7).
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