Arsenal Held to Draw by Liverpool, Misses Chance to Extend Premier League Lead
Arsenal's Stalemate with Liverpool
London [UK], January 9 (Media House): Arsenal had an opportunity to widen their lead at the top of the Premier League 2025-26 standings but ended up in a goalless draw against fourth-placed Liverpool at the Emirates Stadium on Friday (IST).
As it stands, Arsenal leads the Premier League with 49 points, while Manchester City and Aston Villa are tied for second with 43 points each, and Liverpool sits in fourth with 35 points.
Earlier, Manchester City had drawn with Brighton, which could have allowed Arsenal to extend their lead to eight points. However, the Gunners were unable to penetrate the defense of the reigning champions, according to the Premier League's official site.
During the match between Arsenal and Liverpool, both sides struggled to create significant scoring opportunities. Arsenal failed to challenge Liverpool's goalkeeper Alisson Becker effectively, and Liverpool, missing their injured forward Hugo Ekitike, also lacked sharpness in their attack. Conor Bradley came closest for Liverpool, hitting the crossbar before being substituted due to a knee injury.
Arsenal began the match with strong intent, led by Bukayo Saka, but their early momentum diminished as the first half wore on.
Liverpool gradually found their rhythm and nearly scored after a mix-up between Arsenal's William Saliba and David Raya. A hurried clearance from Raya fell to Conor Bradley, whose shot struck the woodwork, marking the closest chance of the first half.
In the second half, Martin Zubimendi thwarted a dangerous pass from Leandro Trossard aimed at Bukayo Saka, while Dominik Szoboszlai's free-kick for Liverpool grazed the top of the net, putting the visitors in a favorable position.
Despite late attempts from Gabriel Martinelli and others, Arsenal could not secure a goal, resulting in a draw that ended their seven-match home winning streak.
Following this match, Arsenal remains six points ahead of both Manchester City and Aston Villa, while Liverpool trails by 14 points in fourth place.
Arsenal will next face Nottingham Forest in Premier League action on January 17, after competing in the FA Cup against Portsmouth and the EFL Cup against Chelsea.