Anfield, Liverpool – In a dramatic Premier League clash, Liverpool squandered a two-goal lead to draw 2-2 with Arsenal on Sunday, leaving fans frustrated as departing right-back Trent Alexander-Arnold endured a bittersweet farewell.
First-Half Dominance Unravels
The Reds started brightly, with Cody Gakpo breaking the deadlock in the 23rd minute, thumping in a header from Andy Robertson’s pinpoint cross after an initial mishit. Just 87 seconds later, Luis Diaz doubled the advantage, tapping home from Dominik Szoboszlai’s slick assist after Mohamed Salah’s incisive pass.
Arsenal, however, refused to capitulate. Gabriel Martinelli reignited their hopes early in the second half, glancing in Leandro Trossard’s cross with Liverpool’s defence caught napping. The momentum shifted further when Mikel Merino headed in the equaliser, capitalizing on Alexander-Arnold’s failure to hold the defensive line.
Alexander-Arnold’s Emotional Anfield Exit
The introduction of Alexander-Arnold, who recently confirmed his summer departure, was met with boos and applause—a stark reminder of the mixed emotions surrounding his exit. The England international’s lapse in concentration proved costly, as his failure to step up played Merino onside for Arsenal’s leveler.
Despite Merino’s late red card, Liverpool couldn’t find a winner, leaving manager Arne Slot to rue another second-half collapse following last week’s defeat to Chelsea.
Player Ratings
- Alisson (5/10) – Beaten by Martinelli’s header; uncharacteristic spill led to Merino’s goal.
- Szoboszlai (8/10) – Sublime assist for Diaz’s strike; Liverpool’s standout midfielder.
- Diaz (8/10) – Lively throughout, rewarded with a goal.
- Alexander-Arnold (4/10) – At fault for the equaliser; subdued farewell.
What’s Next?
Liverpool’s top-four hopes hang in the balance, while Arsenal remain in the hunt for Champions League qualification. For Slot, fixing his side’s defensive lapses will be critical ahead of a pivotal run-in.
*FT: Liverpool 2-2 Arsenal*
⚽ Gakpo (23’), Diaz (25’) | Martinelli (52’), Merino (68’)
🔴 Merino sent off (85’)
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