In an exhilarating Matchweek 9 showdown, Arsenal and Liverpool battled to a thrilling 2-2 draw, with each team showcasing its unique playing style and approach to possession. Despite Arsenal holding a slight advantage in xG (1.5 to Liverpool’s 0.6), Liverpool’s clinical finishing kept them in the game, particularly through key moments from Mohamed Salah.

Match Momentum and Key Moments

Liverpool seized early momentum, with Van Dijk’s early presence in the box posing a threat. Arsenal, however, responded quickly, with Saka and Merino leading the way. Merino’s 42nd-minute goal gave Arsenal a deserved lead, but Liverpool fought back, and Salah’s 80th-minute goal capped off a well-orchestrated counterattack, evening the score.

Shots and Goals

Arsenal took nine shots compared to Liverpool’s eight, reflecting their desire to control the game. Both teams ended with three shots on target, though Arsenal’s opportunities generally came from higher xG chances near the goal.

Liverpool’s shot map, however, demonstrates their efficiency, as they converted two relatively low-xG chances into goals.

Possession Tactics and Pass Maps

Arsenal’s possession play was orchestrated around Declan Rice and Thomas Partey, who facilitated a flowing build-up from the back and allowed Arsenal to reach the attacking third with ease. Martinelli and Saka remained central to Arsenal’s offensive thrusts, providing width and creating space for Havertz.

Liverpool’s possession approach was more vertical, with Trent Alexander-Arnold and Robertson pushing high and wide, looking for long connections to Nunez and Salah. Liverpool’s pass map shows an effective central structure around Gravenberch and Jones, who linked well with the front line and kept Arsenal’s defense on their toes.

In the end, both teams demonstrated resilience, but Liverpool’s precision on limited opportunities and Arsenal’s control of possession made this a balanced, high-energy encounter.