Arsenal staged a remarkable comeback to draw 2-2 with Premier League champions Liverpool in an exciting match at Anfield.
The atmosphere was celebratory as Liverpool, who secured the title two weeks ago, took an early lead with two goals in quick succession.
They opened the scoring in the 20th minute when Arsenal’s defense momentarily switched off after a quick throw-in. Andy Robertson delivered a cross that Cody Gakpo headed into the net.
Just one minute later, Liverpool doubled their lead. Dominik Szoboszlai chased a forward pass and squared the ball for Luis Diaz, who slotted it into an empty net.
It seemed that Arsenal was headed for a heavy defeat, but they rallied after the break.
Gabriel Martinelli scored in the 47th minute, heading in a cross from Leandro Trossard to give Arsenal a glimmer of hope. Moments later, Merino found the net after goalkeeper Alisson tipped a shot from Martin Ødegaard onto the crossbar.
However, Merino received a second yellow card and was sent off for a tackle near the Arsenal penalty area after losing possession, leaving Arsenal to play the final 10 minutes with 10 men.
Trent Alexander-Arnold made his first appearance for Liverpool since announcing he would leave at the end of the season and was met with boos from the supporters when he came on as a substitute. He almost turned those boos into cheers when his free-kick, awarded after Merino’s red card, curled just wide of the post.
Drama ensued right at the end as a goal from Robertson was ruled out. The defender found the net after goalkeeper David Raya parried Virgil van Dijk’s header, but the goal was disallowed due to a foul by Ibrahima Konaté on Myles Lewis-Skelly in the build-up.
The result leaves Liverpool 15 points clear of second-placed Arsenal, who remain in control of their own destiny as they aim to secure Champions League football for the next season.
