Liverpool edged past Arsenal on Sunday, August 31, 2025, when Dominik Szoboszlai struck a stunning free-kick to secure Liverpool a 1–0 victory in Anfield. It was the encounter between two Premier League early Liverpool vs Arsenal pace-setters—and Liverpool won with a telling title assertion. Despite Arsenal controlling big parts of the match, resilience from Liverpool and that one flash of magic from one person was the difference-maker.
Match Overview & Turning Moment
The match was a tightly contested game with very few clear-cut chances for either side. Liverpool, who headed the table in the early part of the season, maintained their perfect start, while Arsenal moved closer to their first win in their prolonged wait since coming to Anfield—a run that is now up to 16 games.
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All that changed in the 83rd minute when Szoboszlai stood up to whip in a free-kick from around 30 yards. The shot curled magnificently into the top corner, away from diving goalkeeper David Raya—a goal that Liverpool were collectively waiting for.
Key Stats & Tactical Insight
Arsenal held the statistical upper hand: more xG, better box touches, and midfield dominance. But lacking was clinical finishing. Defensive solidity from Liverpool and outstanding goalkeeping were the keys—even to a relatively uneventful match.
David Raya admitted that unpredictable movement from the new Puma Orbita ball was to blame for the goal.
Player Highlights
Dominik Szoboszlai (Liverpool): Struck the match-winner with exquisite accuracy. Came on for set-piece duty after the exit of Trent Alexander-Arnold and capitalized.
David Raya (Arsenal): Losing to a world-class shot notwithstanding, his overall game—and after-game commentary on the new ball—put the loss into perspective.
Arsenal’s Defense: William Saliba was forced off early due to a pre-existing injury, which weakened their backline.
Mikel Arteta’s Style of Play: He described the loss as “decided by a magic moment,” instead of strategy errors—the big games are won and lost on thin margins.
Arne Slot (Liverpool Manager): Praised Szoboszlai’s “unbelievable” goal and commented on the solidity of the defence and first-season momentum.
Match Impact & League Implications
Liverpool remain unbeaten and are currently top of the Premier League with nine points from three matches, two points clear of Chelsea.
This is the first time this season that Arsenal have lost. Having dominated possession and pressed to the fullest, they were done in by that moment of brilliance from Szoboszlai.
The victory bolsters Liverpool’s title-defence aspirations as much as Arsenal’s mission to break their Anfield hoodoo.
What’s Next for Both Teams
Liverpool: Go into int’l break feeling positive, morale is good ahead of big games to come.
Arsenal: Needs to regroup in the interval, negotiate injuries—with significant absentees—the comeback trail.
Momentum Shift: A decisive match, especially if the season is neck to neck between top clubs.
Fan & Pundit Reaction
Arsenal supporters expressed frustration on forums—some calling it “highly annoying” given the team’s overall performance and tactical control.The Short Fuse Meanwhile, pundits called Szoboszlai’s free-kick a “moment of magic,” highlighting how singular brilliance can define football.
When was the Liverpool vs Arsenal match played?
The match was played on August 31, 2025, at Anfield.
Who won the Liverpool vs Arsenal game?
Liverpool won 1–0 against Arsenal.
Who scored the winning goal?
Dominik Szoboszlai scored a stunning free-kick in the 83rd minute.
Who was the Man of the Match?
Dominik Szoboszlai was named Man of the Match for his decisive strike.
What does this result mean for the Premier League table?
Liverpool stayed top of the table with nine points, while Arsenal suffered their first defeat of the season.