Liverpool gained an early advantage in the Premier League title race as Dominik Szoboszlai’s stunning free kick earned them a 1-0 victory over Arsenal at Anfield on Sunday.
The eagerly awaited clash between the title contenders seemed destined for a fourth consecutive goalless draw at Anfield.
That was until the 83rd minute, when Szoboszlai, who was deployed at right back for the match, unleashed a fierce, curling strike from central position over 30 yards out, leaving David Raya with no chance.
The breakthrough came just moments after Arsenal had introduced Eberechi Eze for his debut, but the new signing failed to leave a significant mark on the game.
With the win, Liverpool head into the international break at the top of the Premier League, having started their title defense with three straight victories.
The excitement could continue on transfer deadline day, with Liverpool reportedly targeting Alexander Isak and Marc Guéhi, while Arsenal hope William Saliba has escaped serious injury after limping off inside five minutes following a challenge on Hugo Ekitike. Cristhian Mosquera replaced Saliba.
There was also a pre-match adjustment in the VAR booth, with John Brooks replacing Michael Salisbury following an error in Chelsea’s game against Fulham the day before.
Early chances were limited, though Cody Gakpo saw a long-range effort drift wide, while Noni Madueke caused problems for Milos Kerkez down the left flank, winning several corners and forcing a sharp save from Alisson midway through the first half.
Liverpool were sluggish in the opening stages, but Raya nearly gifted them the lead in the 33rd minute.
Van Dijk intercepted the goalkeeper’s underhit pass but could not find Mohamed Salah. Arsenal responded with Madueke’s effort looping behind after a scramble in the box.
The game remained tight until the 60th minute, when Florian Wirtz’s powerful strike tested Raya. Ekitike was first to the rebound, but his goal was ruled out for offside.
Liverpool stepped up their intensity afterward, with Gakpo denied by Raya and Salah’s dangerous cross narrowly evading Wirtz.
Arteta responded by introducing Martin Ødegaard and Eze for the final 20 minutes to boost creativity.
Liverpool lost Ibrahima Konaté to injury and appeared to be struggling for attacking ideas, until Szoboszlai’s moment of brilliance changed the game.
After Curtis Jones was fouled 30 yards from goal, Szoboszlai delivered a breathtaking free kick into the top-left corner, sending Anfield into a frenzy.
Arsenal pressed for an equalizer in the closing minutes, with Eze’s penalty appeals against Joe Gomez ignored and Konaté’s replacement blocking Viktor Gyökeres’ attempt from a cross.
Wirtz, Arsenal’s record signing, limped off as the game wound down, and despite their late efforts, the visitors could not find a way back.
