Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta emphasised the need for clinical finishing after a 1-0 defeat to Liverpool, highlighting the champions’ ability to capitalise on scoring opportunities.
Arsenal’s quest for a first Premier League title in 22 years suffered a setback as Liverpool’s killer instinct proved decisive in a 1-0 win at Anfield.
Dominik Szoboszlai’s stunning 83rd-minute free-kick handed the champions all three points, extending their perfect start to the season. Arsenal, on the other hand, sit third in the table, three points behind Liverpool.
The match was a tightly contested affair with few clear-cut chances, but Liverpool’s ability to seize the moment ultimately made the difference. Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta acknowledged his team’s dominance in possession but lamented their inability to convert scoring opportunities into goals. “An incredible moment won them the game,” Arteta said, emphasising the need for clinical finishing.
Arsenal’s injury woes continued to mount, with Bukayo Saka and Kai Havertz out with injuries, while William Saliba was forced off with an ankle injury just four minutes into the game. Captain Martin Odegaard, who made a commendable appearance off the bench, was the only Arsenal player back from injury.
Despite the challenges, Arteta praised his team’s performance, particularly in the first half. “You cannot dominate here for 90 minutes; it is impossible,” he said. “At the end of the game, I said we have to find a way to win these big matches.” The Arsenal boss believes his team was “much better than last year” but needs to improve their finishing.
Liverpool boss Arne Slot attributed his team’s success to their mentality and work ethic, citing NBA legend Michael Jordan’s famous quote, “The harder I work, the luckier I get.” Slot praised Szoboszlai’s performance, saying the Hungarian midfielder had a “really good game.”
The win takes Liverpool to the top of the Premier League table with nine points from three games. Arsenal, meanwhile, will look to regroup and address their finishing issues ahead of their next match against Burnley on September 13.
