Liverpool faced off Arsenal at Anfield as both the teams came into this game with maximum points from the first two matches. The Merseyside club remains the only team now with that record as they registered a comfortable 3-1 win.
Arsenal were pinned in their half for most parts as Liverpool were impressive with their pressing and retention of the ball. The Reds bombarded the Arsenal box from the flanks with crosses, but they lacked the cutting edge initially. Joel Matip scored the opener through a corner in the 41st minute. Arsenal’s best chance fell to Pepe earlier as Henderson made an error, but the winger failed to capitalise.
The away team had a dreadful start to the second half as Luiz tugged on Salah’s shirt blatantly and the referee awarded a penalty. Salah dispatched it emphatically to add comfort to Liverpool’s lead. The Egyptian attacker once again got the better of David Luiz, and he finished with confidence for his second. Torreira pulled one back for Arsenal late on against the run of play, but it only turned out to be a consolation.
Here is how Klopp’s men fared on the day.
Adrian 6
Came unnecessarily off the line in the first half and failed to deal with a simple ball. Made one crucial save of Pepe but the shot was right at him. Hopefully, he would improve with his decision making.
Joel Matip 8
Scored the opener through a corner. Defensively, dealt with whatever came his way and wasn’t troubled much.
Virgil Van Dijk 8.5
Had some one on one duels with Pepe where he was able to keep the new Arsenal signing under check. Another assured performance from the Dutchman.
Trent Alexander-Arnold 7.5
Almost had a crossing practice session as the Gunners afforded way too much space to him in the first half. Kept on delivering and finally, he found the head of Matip through a corner. Worked hard defensively.
Andy Robertson 7
Like his fullback partner, delivered some threatening balls from the left. Drove the ball forward with intensity and was defensively astute.
Fabinho 6.5
Moved the ball well in midfield. Pressed high and didn’t allow Arsenal to build up from the back.
Jordan Henderson 6
Got bailed out by Adrian after he made a dreadful error which allowed Pepe a clear cut chance. Apart from that, put in a composed performance in the middle.
Georginio Wijnaldum 6
Could have been more creative with his passing. Protected the ball well when in tight spaces as he used his body to good effect.
Sadio Mane 6.5
Had a quiet game as most of Liverpool’s attacks were coming from the right-hand side. Took one decent attempt on goal in the first half. Worked hard and did alright.
Mohamed Salah 9
Was too hot handle as he was turning and swivelling Arsenal defenders for fun. Scored a penalty and carried the ball well to finish smartly for the second. Always looked threatening whenever he got the chance to run at the defence.
Roberto Firmino 8
Might not have got the goals, but his flicks and touches in close quarters were impressive. Linked up play well and provided his usual work rate. Typical Firmino performance.
Substitutes
James Milner 6
Provided a fresh pair of legs on the pitch to see out the game.
Alex Oxlade Chamberlain N/A
Didn’t play enough to warrant a rating.
Adam Lallana N/A
Didn’t play enough to warrant a rating.
