Advantage Arsenal as Liverpool Fall Again, This Time to Chelsea in Stoppage Time

It was a chaotic and frenetic night at Stamford Bridge, however Chelsea’s 2-1 win over Liverpool in stoppage time has major implications for the Premier League title race. Arsenal now sit atop the table, with Liverpool’s defensive vulnerabilities exposed yet again.

Chelsea’s pressing game disrupted Liverpool’s midfield, and despite a wild second half, it was Chelsea who found the decisive moment, thanks to poor defending from a makeshift Liverpool backline. With two central midfielders, Ryan Gravenberch and Dominik Szoboszlai, playing out of position in defense, Liverpool couldn’t cope. Chelsea’s game plan to exploit Liverpool’s full-back weaknesses paid off, with Marc Cucurella’s cross leading to Estevao’s winner.

Liverpool have now lost three in a row, all away, and seem to be regressing to the mean after overperforming earlier in the season. Arsenal, on the other hand, remain steady. Their 2-0 win over West Ham saw Mikel Arteta’s team play fluid, expansive football, with Eberechi Eze and Martin Ødegaard shining in midfield. Arsenal leapfrogged Liverpool to top the table, showing that Arteta’s cautious approach in big games, like against Manchester City and Liverpool, has been effective.

Arsenal are not just top of the table, however also lead the league in goals scored (14) and goals conceded (3). Their measured start to the season, including the 1-1 draw with Manchester City and the narrow loss at Anfield, has proven to be a smart strategy, especially as Liverpool’s weaknesses become more apparent.

Chelsea’s win, though important, doesn’t yet put them in title contention. Injuries to their defense remain a major concern, but their midfield, particularly Moisés Caicedo and Malo Gusto, impressed against Liverpool. Chelsea sit sixth, five points behind Arsenal, and while they’re showing promise, they’ll need to find more balance to challenge for the top spots.

As Liverpool falter, Arsenal’s early season approach is looking more and more like the right one.

DoctorsBonus Premier League winner prediction:

Arsenal – 1.90

Liverpool – 3.50

Manchester City – 5.50

Chelsea – 25.00