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Anfield has witnessed its fair share of unforgettable moments, and on Sunday afternoon it added another to the long list. Dominik Szoboszlai’s outrageous late free-kick gave Liverpool a 1-0 victory over Arsenal in a tense Premier League encounter. With just seven minutes remaining, the Hungarian midfielder bent a 30-yard strike into the top corner of the Kop end, sparking wild celebrations and securing three points for the champions.
This was more than just a win. It was a statement performance from Arne Slot’s side, who head into the international break with maximum points from their first three games of the campaign. Against a determined Arsenal team, Liverpool showed resilience, patience, and eventually the touch of magic needed to separate two of last season’s title challengers.
Team News: Mac Allister Returns
Liverpool made just one change from the thrilling 3-2 victory at Newcastle United earlier in the week. Alexis Mac Allister came back into the starting XI in place of Curtis Jones. Arne Slot once again deployed Szoboszlai at right-back, a role the Hungarian has made his own with a blend of defensive discipline and attacking flair.
The Reds lined up with Alisson in goal, Virgil van Dijk partnered by Ibrahima Konate at centre-back, and Milos Kerkez on the left. Szoboszlai and Florian Wirtz offered width and creativity, while Mac Allister anchored midfield alongside Ryan Gravenberch. Up front, Mohamed Salah, Cody Gakpo, and Hugo Ekitike formed a lively attacking trio.
Arsenal suffered an early setback with William Saliba forced off through injury, a blow that would shape the defensive battle to come.
A Cagey First Half
The first half had all the hallmarks of a clash between two sides who know each other’s strengths well. Neither wanted to give much away, and both sets of defenders stood tall during an opening period that was more about control than clear chances.
Liverpool’s first sight of goal came courtesy of Gravenberch, who surged through midfield and slipped a pass to Gakpo. The Dutch forward cut inside but dragged his shot wide from distance.
For Arsenal, set-pieces looked the likeliest route to goal. Declan Rice’s corner found Noni Madueke, whose effort was saved smartly by Alisson. The Brazilian keeper, as ever, was a calm presence when called upon.
Perhaps Liverpool’s biggest chance of the half arrived after a risky David Raya pass. Van Dijk anticipated the goalkeeper’s intention, muscled past Martin Zubimendi, and tried to find Salah in the box. The ball eventually fell to Mac Allister, whose attempt was bravely blocked by Arsenal defenders.
At the other end, Milos Kerkez and Van Dijk dealt well with Arsenal’s forward runs, ensuring the half ended without a breakthrough.
Liverpool Take Control After the Break
If the first half was even, the second belonged to Liverpool. The champions came out with purpose, pressing higher and moving the ball with more urgency.
Hugo Ekitike thought he had given the Reds the lead around the hour mark. Wirtz unleashed a powerful strike that forced Raya into a parry, and Ekitike bundled the rebound into the net. Celebrations were cut short by the linesman’s flag, the forward judged narrowly offside.
That moment lit a fire under Anfield. With the Kop urging them on, Liverpool surged forward wave after wave. Gravenberch, a standout performer in midfield, almost picked out Ekitike again with a clever pass that was just a touch heavy. The momentum was clearly with Slot’s men.
Szoboszlai’s Magical Moment
Then came the decisive moment. With the clock ticking toward the 83rd minute, Liverpool were awarded a free-kick some 30 yards out. Most inside the stadium expected a cross or a hopeful swing toward the penalty area. Szoboszlai had other ideas.
The Hungarian, who had been immense all game, stepped up and unleashed a thunderous strike that swerved and dipped viciously before nestling in the top corner. Raya could only watch as the net bulged. Anfield erupted.
It was the type of goal that instantly feels iconic. Supporters knew they had just witnessed something extraordinary. In a season barely three games old, Szoboszlai may already have provided Liverpool’s goal of the year, if not the league’s.
Holding Firm in Stoppage Time
Arsenal, stunned but not defeated, threw everything forward in the final minutes. Substitute Viktor Gyokeres looked dangerous, but Joe Gomez, who had replaced the injured Konate, made a vital clearance to deny the striker from close range.
Liverpool then had to withstand seven minutes of stoppage time, during which Arsenal pushed hard for an equaliser. Van Dijk’s leadership and Alisson’s composure proved crucial, as did the tireless running of Gravenberch and Salah to relieve pressure. When the final whistle blew, relief and joy poured down from the stands.
Standout Performers
Several Liverpool players deserve mention, but Szoboszlai’s name will dominate headlines. His versatility at right-back, coupled with his attacking influence, makes him a unique asset in Slot’s system. His goal was world-class, but his all-round display was just as impressive.
Gravenberch deserves praise too. His driving runs through midfield repeatedly unsettled Arsenal and created openings. Van Dijk, meanwhile, rolled back the years with a commanding performance that frustrated Arsenal’s forwards.
For Arsenal, the early loss of Saliba was a major setback. Declan Rice and Martin Ødegaard worked hard to keep the Gunners competitive, but they lacked the cutting edge in the final third.
What This Win Means
With three wins from three, Liverpool go into the September international break as the only Premier League side with a perfect record. More importantly, this victory came against one of their direct rivals for the title. Beating Arsenal not only secures points but also sends a psychological message to the rest of the league.
Arne Slot has started life at Anfield in the best possible way. His willingness to use players like Szoboszlai in unconventional roles has added unpredictability to Liverpool’s play. The squad looks fresh, balanced, and full of belief.
For Arsenal, this is a setback but not a disaster. Mikel Arteta’s side remain one of the strongest teams in the division, and the return of Saliba will be key in the coming weeks. Their challenge will be to respond quickly after the international break.
Anfield’s Roar Returns
Beyond the tactics and statistics, Sunday’s match reminded everyone of the magic of Anfield. The way the Kop grew louder as Liverpool pressed in the second half, the eruption after Szoboszlai’s goal, and the tension during stoppage time all combined to create a classic atmosphere.
This was football at its finest. A high-level clash between two elite sides, decided by a moment of brilliance that will live long in the memory.
Conclusion
Liverpool’s 1-0 win over Arsenal will be remembered for Szoboszlai’s spectacular free-kick, but it also highlighted the resilience and determination of a team that looks ready to defend its crown.
Three games, three wins, nine points. It is early days, but Slot’s side already looks like a team capable of going the distance again. If Szoboszlai and company continue producing moments like Sunday’s, the season ahead promises to be a thrilling one for the red half of Merseyside.
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YNWA (You’ll Never Walk Alone)!
The Liverpool FC Times Team
LiverpoolFCTimes.com