It wasn’t a classic by any stretch — but it was settled in spectacular fashion. Dominik Szoboszlai’s stunning 83rd-minute free-kick gave Liverpool a 1–0 win over Arsenal at Anfield, keeping Arne Slot’s side perfect with three wins out of three and sending last season’s champions back to the top of the Premier League table.
Dominik Szoboszlai. WOW. 🚀 pic.twitter.com/AmSa5lVgcx
— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) August 31, 2025
A Game Crying Out for Quality
For much of the contest, the two sides cancelled each other out. Chances were limited, tension high, and both midfields worked overtime to frustrate the other.
But when Liverpool won a central free-kick from long range late on, Szoboszlai seized his moment. From more than 30 yards, the Hungarian midfielder whipped a thunderous strike past David Raya into the top corner — a “goal of the season” contender and one worthy of deciding a cagey encounter.
Dominik Szoboszlai.
— B/R Football (@brfootball) August 31, 2025
WHAT. A. HIT.
☄️ pic.twitter.com/o9gFIZlZHV
Neville: “Liverpool Have the Edge Arsenal Lack”
Former Manchester United defender Gary Neville, speaking on Sky Sports, believes the difference between the two sides is mentality:
“Liverpool have got something that Arsenal and Arteta don’t have right now, that edge to go on and win those big matches. Liverpool believe they should be winning these matches. I’m not sure Arsenal do — they don’t want to lose.”
Slot’s Perfect Start
For Slot, it was another early sign that his Liverpool team already possess the resilience and belief needed to challenge again. Three games, three wins — including one over a direct rival.
Arsenal’s Familiar Frustration
For Arsenal, it was another story of what might have been. Solid defensively for most of the evening, they looked set to take a point until Szoboszlai’s moment of brilliance left them stunned.
Arteta’s side will have to quickly shake off the disappointment, but questions will linger about whether they truly believe they can win these statement games.
Full-Time Verdict
Liverpool 1–0 Arsenal. A game short on chances, but lit up by one unforgettable free-kick. Last season’s champions are back on top, unbeaten and with belief running through the team. Arsenal leave empty-handed once again — victims of one moment of magic.
