Arsenal vs Liverpool: Instant Reaction

Thoughts at full time

Straight into it

Headline: Arsenal make a title statement

Arsenal needed to win to not fall behind in the title race and win they did.

Realistically this only moves them only into the conversation for the title but with the weight of being called bottlers again they NEEDED to win this one. This is what things look like based on my simulations before the match:

Arsenal were staring at the abyss and responded with a hell of a performance.

This was a near repeat of the FA Cup level of dominance that Arsenal put on display, cutting Liverpool open again and again. Arsenal ended up with 6 big chances in this match, including 4 in the first half.

From start to finish Arsenal were as complete as I have seen them in a big game. The pressing was excellent, with Arsenal generating 10 high starts and 3 shots. The pressure was also constant, holding Liverpool under their expected passing in their own half (84% expected, 82% actual). Liverpool could not get comfortable and they struggled to get out.

This was also I think the textbook of what Arteta wants to see from his team. When the pressing situations were not there, the team was very good at dropping into their shape and limiting space to complete passes into dangerous zones.

50.7 - Liverpool’s average of touches within 25 yards goal

21 - Liverpool’s number of touches within 25 yards goal here. The lowest tally that they have had all season.

This was a smothering defensive performance matched with a good attacking performance from Arsenal.

Liverpool came in on a high, Arsenal came in with major questions about this team.

I don’t think that you can say that this is anything else than a statement win from Arsenal. Arsenal said we are still one of the best teams in the world and you cannot count us out.

I am here for it.

Stock Rising: Martin Ødegaard

On day where there are lots of deserving players I am giving this to the captain.