First Half Brilliant, Second Half Disappointing: Reds Draw With Arsenal

Yahoo

11-05-2025

Arsenal's Premier League visit to Anfield was billed as a formality for newly-crowned champions Liverpool. Yet what unfolded on Merseyside was a pulsating 2-2 draw, featuring Luis Diaz at the centre of Liverpool's dominance, a spirited Arsenal comeback, and late VAR drama that robbed this clash of a truly fairytale ending.
Mikel Arteta's side, still smarting from a Champions League exit and domestic stumbles, were under scrutiny. Their defensive vulnerabilities showed early. By the 21st minute, Arsenal trailed 2-0, Diaz on the scoresheet, and Anfield in full voice. But when written off, Arsenal roared back, and a spirited second-half response saw them claw their way level — only for a late Liverpool winner to be ruled out in dramatic fashion.
Liverpool's attacking intent was clear from the outset. Within eight minutes, Diaz tested David Raya from close range after being teed up by Salah. The Colombian looked sharp, confident, and decisive — and his performance would soon yield reward.
After Gakpo's 20th-minute opener, expertly guided home from Robertson's delivery, Diaz doubled the advantage just 90 seconds later. Szoboszlai's squared pass was met by the forward, who slid home to make it 2-0. 'GOOAAAALLLL! IT'S 2-0 LIVERPOOL WITHIN 90 SECONDS AS DIAZ SCORES!' was the call — and few could argue with the hosts' control.
Diaz's relentless energy caused constant problems for the Gunners' back line, and by half-time, the champions had a deserved two-goal cushion. Their record of winning the last 36 league matches at Anfield when leading at half-time looked secure.
Arteta's team talk must have cut deep. Within two minutes of the restart, Arsenal found a response. Trossard's pinpoint delivery was headed home by Martinelli, bringing it back to 2-1 and giving the visitors belief.
Liverpool, though still dangerous, began to show signs of fatigue. Arsenal's pressing improved, and their midfield found rhythm. Odegaard began pulling strings, and Merino — one of the Gunners' most industrious performers — would get his moment.
The match appeared destined for a frantic conclusion, and it delivered. In the 90+6 minute, Liverpool thought they had stolen it. A Mac Allister corner, Van Dijk's header, and Robertson's rebound — all seemingly perfect. But the goal was disallowed. VAR spotted Konate fouling Lewis-Skelly in the box, and Arsenal were spared.
Just moments before, Odegaard had gone inches wide with a late effort that could've sealed an improbable win. His run typified Arsenal's urgency — but in the end, they had to settle for a point.
Merino's late red card added to the drama, and by the final whistle, both sides looked drained — but the draw felt like a moral win for Arsenal, given the odds.
Arsenal came into this game with just a 2.7% chance of winning, according to the Opta Supercomputer at half-time. That number only reinforced the significance of their comeback — even if it fell short of three points.
Diaz, meanwhile, showed why he remains a key figure in Liverpool's attacking blueprint. His early goal and all-round involvement underline his influence in big games.
For Arsenal, the fightback may not change the league table significantly, but it showcased a side still willing to challenge — still armed with players like Saka, Martinelli, and Odegaard who can unlock defences. And while their title hopes have faded, performances like this keep belief alive.