Tense start as Arsenal host Liverpool: live updates & highlights

Arsenal and Liverpool served up a tense, high‑tempo clash at the Emirates, with the league‑leading hosts looking to protect their advantage at the top of the table against the defending champions. From the opening whistle, Arsenal pressed aggressively, forcing Liverpool into hurried clearances and occasional mistakes at the back. Liverpool, however, remained dangerous in transition, looking to exploit space behind Arsenal’s advanced full-backs.

Arsenal’s front line, led by the movement and physical presence of their central striker, repeatedly tested the Liverpool defence, combining sharp interchanges around the box with crosses aimed into crowded areas. The visitors, missing several key players, relied heavily on their technical midfielders and wide forwards to relieve pressure and carry the ball upfield, often targeting quick counters rather than sustained possession.

The first half was characterised by half-chances and near-misses rather than clear-cut opportunities. Arsenal saw more of the ball and territory, but Liverpool’s compact shape and disciplined pressing limited truly dangerous openings. Both goalkeepers were called into action with smart saves from long-range efforts and set pieces, ensuring the contest remained finely poised.

After the interval, the tempo rose further as tackles flew in and the match became increasingly stretched. Arsenal continued to push for a breakthrough, rotating their attacking options and using substitutions to inject energy and maintain their press. Liverpool responded with changes of their own, seeking fresh legs to maintain their counter-attacking threat and protect a valuable result away from home.

The closing stages were nervy for both sides, with the game oscillating between Arsenal’s pressure and Liverpool’s counters. Highlights included last-ditch defending, blocks inside the area, and a series of set pieces that kept tension high in the stands. Ultimately, the match underlined Arsenal’s determination to grind out results at the top of the league and Liverpool’s resilience as champions, in a contest that felt like it could turn on a single moment throughout.