August 31, 2025
Dominik Szoboszlai struck a stunning 83rd-minute free-kick to hand Liverpool a 1-0 victory over Arsenal at Anfield on Sunday, securing the champions’ third consecutive win of the Premier League season and sending them to the top of the table.
The match, billed as an early test of strength between two title contenders, was a cagey affair for long periods with both sides cancelling each other out.
Arsenal, unbeaten in their opening two matches and yet to concede a goal before this fixture, lost defender William Saliba to injury inside the first five minutes, forcing manager Mikel Arteta to reshuffle his back line.
Despite the setback, the visitors defended with discipline and restricted Liverpool to few clear chances.
Liverpool gradually began to impose themselves as the game wore on, but Arsenal remained dangerous on the counter, with Viktor Gyökeres leading their line.
The breakthrough eventually came from a set-piece after Curtis Jones was fouled by Martin Zubimendi just outside the area.
Szoboszlai, deployed at right-back due to injuries in Arne Slot’s squad, stepped up and curled a right-footed strike over the wall and in off the post, leaving goalkeeper David Raya helpless and the Anfield crowd in raptures.
Liverpool manager Slot hailed the goal as the decisive moment in a tightly contested match, describing it as “a moment of magic” that the team needed.
He praised his players’ resilience and tactical discipline, while Szoboszlai admitted afterwards that he had taken a “risk” with the strike but trusted his technique.
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Arsenal attempted a late response, bringing on Martin Ødegaard and Eberechi Eze to increase their attacking options, but Liverpool held firm to preserve the clean sheet.
The defeat marked Arsenal’s first loss and first goal conceded of the campaign, halting their strong start to the season.
The result ensures Liverpool maintain their perfect record with nine points from their opening three fixtures, strengthening their position as early leaders in the title race.
For Arsenal, the setback raises questions over squad depth after Saliba’s injury and highlights the fine margins that separate the Premier League’s leading sides.
