Mikel Merino found the net and then received a red card as Arsenal overcame a two-goal deficit to tie with Premier League title holders Liverpool in an exciting match at Anfield.
The atmosphere was festive since Liverpool had clinched the championship two weeks prior, quickly taking the lead with two goals within a mere two minutes.
The first goal came in the 20th minute when Arsenal’s defense momentarily switched off following a quick throw-in; Andy Robertson delivered a cross that Cody Gakpo headed into the net.
Just a minute later, the Reds expanded their advantage when Dominik Szoboszlai ran onto a forward pass, passing the ball across for Luis Diaz to glide into an unguarded net.
Arsenal seemed destined for a significant loss but gained momentum after halftime.
Gabriel Martinelli nodded in a cross from Leandro Trossard, providing them with hope in the 47th minute, and shortly after, Merino scored when Alisson deflected a Martin Odegaard shot onto the crossbar.
However, Merino received a second yellow card for a reckless challenge on the edge of the Arsenal box after relinquishing possession, resulting in the visitors finishing the last 10 minutes with 10 players.
Read also:
- Arsenal to negotiate new contract with Bukayo Saka
- Arsenal humiliate Real Madrid 3-0 in Champions League thriller, Declan Rice shines with stunning braces
- Tragic as policeman dies in Calabar after Arsenal’s victory over Real Madrid
It marked Trent Alexander-Arnold’s return to action for Liverpool since he announced his departure at season’s end, facing boos from supporters upon his introduction as a substitute.
He nearly transformed the jeers into applause when his free-kick after Merino’s red card narrowly missed the post.
The match concluded with a dramatic moment as Robertson’s goal was disallowed.
The defender found the back of the net after David Raya had saved Virgil van Dijk’s header, but a foul by Ibrahima Konate on Myles Lewis-Skelly during the sequence nullified the goal.
As a result, Liverpool maintains a 15-point lead over second-place Arsenal, who still have control of their fate as they seek to secure a spot in next season’s Champions League.
The celebration vibe continued to fill Anfield, with supporters relishing their title victory.
