Arsenal maintained their perch at the top of the Premier League following a riveting clash between Liverpool and Manchester City, concluding in a 1-1 draw at Anfield on Sunday.
In a showdown between two football giants, John Stones’ opener was cancelled out by Alexis Mac Allister’s penalty, leaving Liverpool trailing Arsenal on goal difference, and City one point adrift in third place with 10 games remaining.
Despite missing key players due to injuries, Liverpool, managed by Jurgen Klopp, showcased resilience in a thrilling second half, creating numerous opportunities that could prove crucial in the title race.
City’s quest for a win at Anfield since 2003 continued, and their late chance to secure victory was denied when Jeremy Doku’s effort hit the post.
While the match ended in a draw, Arsenal emerged as the weekend’s winners, securing the top spot with eight consecutive league victories.
However, their mettle will be tested in the upcoming league match against City on March 31.
Liverpool faced defensive challenges with several key players, including Mohamed Salah and Andy Robertson, on the bench due to fitness concerns, and others like Alisson Becker, Trent Alexander-Arnold, Ibrahima Konate, and Diogo Jota absent due to injuries.
Early in the game, Kevin De Bruyne exploited spaces in Liverpool’s makeshift defence, narrowly missing an audacious chip and testing goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher with a long-range shot.
The absence of Salah and Jota increased the pressure on Darwin Nunez to lead Liverpool’s attack, but he struggled with offside positions in the first half.
Despite Liverpool’s defensive lapses, Stones capitalised on a corner from De Bruyne, putting City ahead.
However, Klopp’s side rallied before halftime, with Dominik Szoboszlai and Luis Diaz having chances to equalise.
The second half started with a quick equaliser from Liverpool, as Nunez capitalised on a defensive error by Nathan Ake, earning a penalty that Mac Allister converted.
Liverpool gained momentum, with Salah and Robertson joining the fray in the 60th minute. Diaz missed a clear chance, Walker denied him, and Ortega made crucial saves, preserving the draw.
City, despite late pressure, couldn’t secure a victory. Doku’s shot, hitting the post, was the closest they came. Liverpool appealed for a second penalty in added time, but referee Michael Oliver and VAR were unmoved, setting the stage for a tantalisingly poised title race.
