What Liverpool are actually doing better than Arsenal in 2026 will shock you - opinion
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Liverpool vs. Arsenal 2026: The Stats Show One Clear Defensive Winner
Liverpool emerged as the definitive defensive superior in their recent clash against Arsenal, according to detailed statistical breakdowns and tactical analyses. Despite a low-scoring draw, Liverpool's backline demonstrated superior organization and resilience, keeping Arsenal's attack largely at bay.[1][2][5]
Key Defensive Stats Favor Liverpool
Player-by-player comparisons highlight Liverpool's edge. Goalkeeper Alisson earned top honors with a clean sheet performance, rated 8.3 for four saves.[3][5] Right-back Conor Bradley outshone Arsenal's Jurrien Timber, averaging 2.5 clearances and 1.3 interceptions per 90 minutes versus Timber's 2.0 and 0.9.[3] In central defense, Virgil van Dijk led with 7.7 clearances, dominating aerial and ground duels, while partner Ibrahima Konate outperformed Arsenal's Gabriel and William Saliba in engagement metrics.[3]
Midfield defensive duties saw Liverpool's Ryan Gravenberch edge Arsenal's Martin Zubimendi, despite Zubimendi's slight tackle lead (1.8 vs. 1.7 per 90).[3] Liverpool's structure shone: full-backs stayed wide to neutralize wingers like Gabriel Martinelli, forming back-fives or sixes to track Arsenal full-back runs. This communication and man-orientation limited space effectively.[2]
Match Stats and Tactics
| Metric | Arsenal | Liverpool |
|---|---|---|
| Full-Time Possession | 48% | 52% |
| xG | 0.57 | 0.36 |
| Shots on Target | 4 | 0 (Clean Sheet) |
Arsenal built from the back cleverly, rotating midfielders into a back-three to outnumber Liverpool's front two, but Liverpool's 4-4-2 press and midfield drops countered effectively. Arsenal struggled against compact defenses broadly, averaging just 7.8 shots per 100 phases versus Liverpool's 9.9.[4] Half-time stats showed Arsenal dominating possession (60% vs. 40%) but low xG (0.30 vs. 0.14), underscoring Liverpool's control.[5]
Ultimately, Liverpool's proactive defending, higher duel wins, and tactical adaptability declare them the clear defensive winners, shocking given Arsenal's reputation.[1][3]
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