Dominik Szoboszlai produced a moment of brilliance at Anfield on Sunday, curling home a spectacular 83rd-minute free-kick to hand Liverpool a hard-fought 1-0 win over Premier League rivals Arsenal.
The clash, billed as an early title decider, had been locked in a tense stalemate before the Hungarian midfielder stepped up to settle the contest. His strike ensured that Liverpool, the defending champions, remain the only side with a 100% record from their opening three games.
Arne Slot’s side once again left it late, having also scored dramatic winners against Bournemouth and Newcastle in their first two fixtures. The Dutch manager, who has rebuilt much of the squad that stormed to the title last season, is still shaping his new-look team. Yet, with match-winners like Szoboszlai, Liverpool continue to demonstrate why they are the side to beat.
The Reds could become even stronger before the transfer window closes on Monday, with Newcastle striker Alexander Isak and Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi both on their radar.
For Arsenal, the evening was one of frustration and missed opportunities. Mikel Arteta’s men were weakened by the absence of Bukayo Saka and Kai Havertz, while Viktor Gyokeres failed to make an impact up front. The Swedish striker, prolific at Sporting Lisbon, was kept quiet by Virgil van Dijk.
Their defensive line also suffered an early blow when William Saliba was forced off injured within five minutes, replaced by 20-year-old Christhian Mosquera. Despite the setback, Arsenal’s makeshift backline held firm for long spells, restricting Liverpool’s front four of Florian Wirtz, Cody Gakpo, Mohamed Salah, and Hugo Ekitike.
New signing Noni Madueke, brought in from Chelsea for £48.5 million despite fan protests, was arguably Arsenal’s brightest spark on the right wing. He consistently troubled Milos Kerkez, though his end product was lacking.
The key moment of the game came when Liverpool thought they had taken the lead just after the hour mark when Florian Wirtz’s shot was spilled by David Raya, allowing Gakpo and Ekitike to scramble the ball into the net. However, the goal was ruled out for offside in the buildup.
That moment lifted the Anfield crowd, and Liverpool pressed harder in search of the breakthrough. Arsenal, who had not conceded in their opening two matches, looked on course for another clean sheet until Szoboszlai delivered his decisive strike with a dipping, curling effort that kissed the post on its way past Raya.
The Gunners pushed for an equaliser, appealing for a penalty when Joe Gomez tangled with Eberechi Eze, but referee Michael Oliver waved play on. Liverpool stood firm to secure their first clean sheet of the season and strike a psychological blow in the title race.
For Slot, the victory extends his perfect start as Liverpool manager and further cements his reputation for late-game tactical adjustments. For Arsenal, the result highlights both their growing injury concerns and the need for their new signings to quickly adapt if they are to mount a serious title challenge.
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