Introduction
The Premier League has started and we have seen some exciting matches till now. The previous two matchdays have shown us how competitive and thrilling this year’s season is going to be. Here we are in Game Week 3 and another exciting match is awaiting. It’s the high flying Gunners ( Arsenal) against last year’s Champions Liverpool. Both sides have won 2 out 2 games so far in the league. This clash means someone’s winning streak will be coming to an end.
TEAMS
Liverpool
Champions Liverpool started their season in a very shaky manner against Leeds United where they somehow won the game against Leeds. Liverpool yet again unconvincing against 11 man Chelsea side but a red card to Chelsea defender changed the game completely thus Liverpool managed to edge past Chelsea. Liverpool will also know that the Gunners have got the better of them twice in their last 2 meetings. They are the only team that has gotten better of them. As far as the team news is concerned Liverpool set to miss the services of Matip, captain Henderson. Even with the likes of Milner, Gomez is also doubtful for the clash.
Arsenal
Gunners, on the other hand, have also positively started their campaign by defeating Fulham, West ham, and recently Lecister in Cup tie. Arsenal is the only team that has got better of Liverpool since the appointment of Arteta. They have beaten the champions twice and will be again looking to have third on them. They are set to miss many of their key players with injuries. Players such as Cedric Soares, Mustafi, Chambers, Pabo Mari.
Head to Head
Head to head record of both teams has been almost equal in total 38 encounters Gunners have won 14 while Liverpool won 14 and 10 were draws. Their most recent clash was in the community shield where Arsenal beat Liverpool on penalties. This clash played at Anfield where Liverpool has gone unbeaten in their last 60 games. Their last defeat at Anfield came back in 2017.
Managers Box
What did they say –
Liverpool: Klopp
“We prepare for the whole season. This season will be one of the most intense we will ever experience in our lives because the games will come quick and fast. We will try to win everything and will take each game at a time”
Arsenal: Arteta
“Beating them (Liverpool ) at the start of the season gave us the confidence and belief that we could challenge and play against top teams at the highest level and we can beat them”
Tactical aspect
Liverpool
The host Liverpool will certainly start with their signature 4-3-3. While attacking the pool will commit their full-backs high up the pitch. They will use quick and short passes to penetrate the Arsenal defense. Their pacey front 3 of Mane- Firmino- Salah can do the damage upfront. Liverpool will start with TAA and Robo as fullbacks and again Klopp will have to fill in Fabinho alongside VVD at Centre back if Gomez isn’t fit for the match. Their newest signing Thiago could get his first start for Liverpool in his preferred role of controlling the game. In front 3 there will be no chance of changes seeing the magnitude of the game.
Arsenal
The Gunners are likely to play 3-4-3 formation from the start. The Gunners while going forward look to break on counters with the pace of Aubayermang and Willian. Defensively, the Gunners can shift into a 5-4-1. For Arsenal David Luiz will be back to partner Gabriel and if Tierney is fit then he would start otherwise Holding to get an extended run in the team. Maitland-Niles and Bellerin will be occupying the wingback positions In the midfield Xkaka and Ceballos are likely to start. As far as the attack is concerned, Willian – Lacazette – Aubameyang will start.
Conclusion
This encounter will guarantee you plenty of goals. We can witness another high scoring game tonight. Liverpool’s record at Anfield is pretty impressive. Liverpool attack is more lethal and can tear apart Arsenal but the visitors also have plenty of goals in their armory and can hurt the host. This contest is going to be an entertaining one. Let’s see who comes out on top.
