In an exhilarating Premier League encounter at the Emirates Stadium, Mohamed Salah’s last-gasp strike earned Liverpool a hard-fought 2-2 draw against Arsenal. The Egyptian King once again proved his worth, rescuing a vital point for the Reds in their quest to climb the table.
Saka Shines Early On
The match started with Arsenal in the ascendancy, as their young starlet Bukayo Saka put on a scintillating display. The England international opened the scoring with a moment of individual brilliance, nutmegging Andrew Robertson before lashing a shot past Caoimhín Kelleher at the near post.
Saka’s goal was a thing of beauty. The way he left Robertson for dead and then rifled it home – that’s the kind of quality that sets him apart.
– Former Arsenal striker Alan Smith
Van Dijk Header Levels for Liverpool
However, Liverpool showed their resilience and were back on level terms just minutes later. Virgil van Dijk, who had clashed with Kai Havertz early on, rose highest to head home from a Trent Alexander-Arnold corner kick. The Dutchman’s goal was just rewards for his commanding performance at the back.
Merino Restores Arsenal’s Lead
Arsenal retook the lead just before halftime through summer signing Mikel Merino. The Spaniard timed his run to perfection, stooping to head home from a wicked Declan Rice free kick delivery. It was Merino’s first goal for the Gunners and just what they deserved for a high-intensity first half display.
Makeshift Arsenal Defense Holds Firm
With William Saliba suspended and Riccardo Calafiori injured, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta was forced into a defensive reshuffle. Thomas Partey filled in at right back, with Ben White shifting to center half. Jurrien Timber passed a late fitness test to start at left back.
The makeshift back line held up admirably in the second half, even as injuries to Gabriel Magalhães and Timber himself stretched them to the limit. Liverpool dominated territory but clear-cut chances were few and far between.
Salah Strikes at the Death
But cometh the hour, cometh the man. In the dying embers of the match, that man was Mohamed Salah. Found by a cute reverse pass from Darwin Núñez, the Egyptian made no mistake, sweeping a first-time shot beyond David Raya to send the away fans into delirium.
That’s what Salah does. He’s always there in the big moments, especially against the top teams. He’s a difference maker.
– Former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher
It was Salah’s 11th goal in 15 league appearances against Arsenal, once again underlining his status as the Gunners’ nemesis. The draw was the least Liverpool deserved for a vastly improved second half showing.
A Point Gained or Two Dropped?
For Arsenal, it will feel like two points dropped in their pursuit of a top-four finish. Having led twice, Arteta will be disappointed his side couldn’t hold on.
Liverpool, meanwhile, will see this as a valuable point gained and a sign that they are turning the corner under new manager Arne Slot. With key players returning from injury, the Reds will hope this result can kickstart their season.
Key Takeaways
- Mohamed Salah has an impressive record against fellow “Big Six” teams, underlining his status as a big game player.
- Arsenal’s defensive depth will be tested in the coming weeks, with injuries starting to take their toll.
- Liverpool are showing signs of improvement under Arne Slot and will be buoyed by this fightback.
- Bukayo Saka continues to go from strength to strength and looks every bit a world class talent.
Both teams will feel they have positives to take from an enthralling encounter at the Emirates. In the end, a draw was probably a fair result. But it’s Liverpool who will leave North London the happier, thanks to Mohamed Salah’s late moment of magic.
