Liverpool climbed to the top of the Premier League table with a dramatic 1-0 win against Arsenal at Anfield. Thanks to a sensational late free-kick from Dominik Szoboszlai, the Reds secured the win in this early title race. The reigning champions delivered a historic moment before kickoff as well.
Arne Slot named a starting XI without a single English player for only the second time in their top-flight history. The coach’s selection raised eyebrows as this became the second occurrence in this year alone. The Reds did it previously during their 4-0 win in April 2016.
Thry started that Premier League match without an Englishman. Trent Alexander-Arnold and Curtis Jones started on the bench in that match. Meanwhile, in today’s match against Arsenal, the Reds fielded a cosmopolitan lineup. The backline featured Alisson in goal.
Szoboszlai started as a makeshift right-back alongside Ibrahima Konate, Virgil van Dijk, and Andy Robertson. Ryan Gravenberch partnered Alexis Mac Allister in midfield, with a formidable attacking quartet of Mohamed Salah, Florian Wirtz, Cody Gakpo, and Hugo Ekitike leading the charge.
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The highly anticipated clash between last season’s top two began with an early scare for Arsenal. William Saliba limped off inside five minutes of the match after a collision with Ekitike. His absence forced Mikel Arteta to turn to Cristhian Mosquera, a summer signing from Valencia.
However, both sides struggled to create clear chances in the first half. Liverpool nearly capitalized on a David Raya mistake in the 33rd minute when Virgil van Dijk intercepted a loose pass. But Salah failed to convert. Arsenal, meanwhile, threatened through Noni Madueke.
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He forced a smart save from Alisson after some dangerous wing play. The second half followed a similar pattern. Florian Wirtz and Hugo Ekitike combined for a disallowed goal due to offside. The game appeared destined for a fourth consecutive draw between these sides at Anfield.
At that moment, Szoboszlai stepped up in the 83rd minute. After Martin Zubimendi fouled Curtis Jones 30 yards out, the Hungarian midfielder curled a jaw-dropping free-kick off the inside of the post and into the net. Despite late pressure from Arsenal, including a penalty shout from Eberechi Eze, Liverpool held firm to secure their third straight league win.
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