Injury-plagued Arsenal secures a point against Arne Slot’s team thanks to a late goal from Mohamed Salah.

**Salah Saves the Day as Liverpool Snatch Draw Against Arsenal**

In a pulsating encounter at the Emirates Stadium, Mohamed Salah emerged as the hero for Liverpool, scoring a late equaliser to secure a 2-2 draw against title rivals Arsenal. The match, held on October 27, 2024, showcased the resilience of both teams, but it was Salah’s clinical finish that stole the headlines.

Arsenal started the match with a bang, as Bukayo Saka, who had been a doubt due to injury, made a dazzling run past Andy Robertson. The young winger cut inside and unleashed a powerful shot that found the back of the net just nine minutes in, sending the home crowd into raptures.

However, Liverpool responded swiftly. Just nine minutes later, Virgil van Dijk marked his 100th appearance as captain for the Reds with a well-placed header from a left-wing corner, leveling the score at 1-1. The momentum seemed to shift in Liverpool’s favour, but Arsenal quickly regained control.

The Gunners took the lead again just before half-time when Mikel Merino scored his first goal for the club, heading in from a superb free kick delivered by Declan Rice. Despite being without the suspended William Saliba, Arsenal’s defensive unit held firm, even as they lost Gabriel and Jurrien Timber to injuries in the second half.

As the match wore on, Liverpool found their footing and began to press for an equaliser. Their persistence paid off in the 81st minute when Salah finished off a swift counter-attack, converting a precise pass from Darwin Nunez. The Egyptian’s cool finish ensured that Liverpool left London with a point, although they remained a point behind leaders Manchester City in the Premier League standings.

The draw was a bittersweet result for both teams. While Arsenal climbed to third place, they still find themselves four points adrift of the top. Liverpool, on the other hand, will reflect on a challenging week with a sense of satisfaction, though they may rue the missed opportunity to extend their lead over a depleted Arsenal side.

**Talking Point: A Draw That Benefits Manchester City**

In the lead-up to the match, much was made of Arsenal’s injury woes, yet both Saka and Timber were deemed fit to start, much to the surprise of many. Mikel Arteta’s side needed a win to keep pace at the top, and they certainly looked the hungrier team for large portions of the game.

Saka’s performance was particularly noteworthy, as he tormented Liverpool’s defence throughout the first half. However, despite their dominance, Arsenal could not hold on to their lead, and Liverpool capitalised on the Gunners’ injury setbacks to snatch a point.

Critics have suggested that Liverpool have enjoyed a favourable fixture list early in the season, but they demonstrated their grit and determination in this match, remaining unbeaten on the road.

**Player of the Match: Bukayo Saka**

Bukayo Saka’s importance to Arsenal was further highlighted as he became the youngest player to score 50 Premier League goals for the club. The 23-year-old delivered a captain’s performance, giving Robertson a torrid time and scoring a stunning solo goal. Although he faded in the second half, his impact was undeniable, showcasing why Arteta was eager to have him on the pitch against a major rival.

**Player Ratings**

**Arsenal:**
Raya 7, Partey 7, White 8, Gabriel 8, Timber 8, Rice 8, Merino 8, Trossard 7, Saka 9, Martinelli 8, Havertz 8.
Subs: Kiwior 6, Lewis-Skelly 5, Nwaneri n/a, Jesus n/a.

**Liverpool:**
Kelleher 7, Alexander-Arnold 6, Konate 7, van Dijk 7, Robertson 6, Mac Allister 5, Gravenberch 6, Jones 7, Salah 7, Diaz 5, Nunez 6.
Subs: Szoboszlai 7, Gakpo 6, Tsimikas 7, Endo n/a.

**Match Highlights**

– **09’ – GOAL!** Arsenal 1-0 Liverpool: Saka races down the right, cuts inside Robertson, and fires a rising shot past Kelleher.

– **18’ – GOAL!** Arsenal 1-1 Liverpool: Van Dijk nods in from a corner, leveling the score.

– **43’ – GOAL!** Arsenal 2-1 Liverpool: Merino heads in from Rice’s free kick, restoring Arsenal’s lead.

– **81’ – GOAL!** Arsenal 2-2 Liverpool: Salah levels the match with a composed finish after a swift counter-attack.

As both teams now turn their attention to the League Cup, with Arsenal set to visit Preston and Liverpool heading to Brighton, fans can expect more thrilling action in the coming days.