In a thrilling encounter that lived up to its hype, Liverpool nabbed a crucial 1-0 victory against Arsenal at Anfield, putting them ahead in the Premier League title race thanks to a sensational late free kick from Dominik Szoboszlai.

As anticipation built for this clash between top contenders, the game initially seemed destined for a fourth consecutive goalless draw between these teams at Anfield. However, all that changed in the 83rd minute when Szoboszlai, surprisingly positioned at right back, unleashed a breathtaking curling shot from over 30 yards out that left Arsenal's goalkeeper, David Raya, with no chance.

This breakthrough came shortly after Arsenal introduced Eberechi Eze for his debut, yet the promising newcomer couldn’t make the impact he had hoped for. With this win, Liverpool heads into the international break at the top of the Premier League with a perfect record of three wins in three matches, leaving fans eager for potential new signings on the transfer deadline day.

Rumors swirl around Liverpool making a £35 million bid for Crystal Palace's Marc Guéhi, while Arsenal will be holding their breath for the health of William Saliba, who limped off within the opening five minutes after a challenge on Hugo Ekitike. The French defender was replaced by summer signing Cristhian Mosquera.

The match was marked by a physicality that often stifled creativity, and notable changes were made behind the scenes as John Brooks took over as VAR after a controversial incident in the previous day's match.

Cody Gakpo tested Arsenal's defense early with a long-range attempt, while Noni Madueke's pace troubled Liverpool's left back, Milos Kerkez. Madueke's corners kept the Liverpool defense on their toes, culminating in a save by Alisson from one such set piece.

Despite a lackluster performance, the home side nearly capitalized on a mistake from Raya, whose underhit pass was intercepted by Virgil van Dijk, only for the Liverpool captain to misplace his delivery to Mohamed Salah.

As the second half commenced, the intensity escalated. A disallowed goal followed a powerful strike from Florian Wirtz, sending a warning to Arsenal. Liverpool pushed harder, but it wasn't until the free kick that the deadlock was broken.

After Mart�n Zubimendi was booked for a foul on Curtis Jones, Szoboszlai’s remarkable shot sparked an eruption of cheers from the Anfield crowd. In their desperate search for an equalizer, Arsenal came close but were thwarted by Liverpool’s solid defense.

As the final whistle approached, Arsenal continued pressing for an equalizer, witnessing Eze's penalty appeals dismissed after a tackle by Joe Gomez. In a dramatic twist, Wirtz, Liverpool's record signing, exited the pitch limping, raising concerns as the match drew to a close.