Liverpool held by ten-man Arsenal after two-goal lead slips

Arsenal gave newly crowned champions Liverpool a guard of honour—then reminded them why they were the closest challengers this season, fighting back from two goals down to draw 2-2 in a pulsating encounter at a sun-drenched Anfield.

Liverpool dominated the first half, with Cody Gakpo’s header and a Luis Díaz tap-in within 90 seconds giving them a commanding 2-0 lead.

In a match reported by Al Jazeera, Arsenal, reeling from their Champions League semifinal exit midweek, looked flat early on but responded with spirit after the break.

Gabriel Martinelli pulled one back shortly after halftime with a close-range header before Mikel Merino equalised in the 70th minute, nodding in a rebound after Martin Ødegaard’s thunderous strike was pushed onto the woodwork by Alisson.

Merino was sent off nine minutes later for a reckless challenge on Dominik Szoboszlai, but the 10-man visitors held firm and nearly snatched victory when Ødegaard fired inches wide deep into stoppage time.

Liverpool, already confirmed Premier League champions with a record-equalling 20th title, sit on 83 points from 36 games.

Arsenal are second with 68 and still need points to secure a top-five finish and Champions League qualification.

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