Liverpool End 16 Year Shooting Run in Goalless Arsenal Stalemate
Liverpool’s 0-0 draw with Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium brought an unexpected end to a remarkable attacking record, as the Reds failed to register a single shot on target for the first time in 16 years.
The defending champions grew into the contest against the Premier League leaders and enjoyed long spells of control in north London, but their dominance never translated into a genuine test for David Raya, with the match finishing without a goal.
The absence of a cutting edge ultimately defined the evening. Liverpool attempted eight shots across 90 minutes, yet none forced the Arsenal goalkeeper into action, a statistic that underlined the unusual nature of the result.
It marked the first time since 2010 that Liverpool had gone through a top flight fixture without a shot on target, ending a 600-game streak that highlighted their consistency in the final third over more than a decade.
The setting was intense from the opening exchanges, with a lively Emirates crowd backing an Arsenal side keen to tighten their grip at the top of the table. Liverpool, however, were composed in possession early on, moving the ball patiently through midfield and pressing high when opportunities arose.
Arsenal initially threatened through quick transitions, but Liverpool’s defensive structure held firm. The midfield battle became the focal point of the first half, with both sides cancelling each other out in central areas and chances proving difficult to come by.
Clear openings were rare. Arsenal went closest before the break with a half chance from the edge of the box, while Liverpool’s best moments came from long range efforts that drifted harmlessly wide. The referee had little involvement as the match flowed without major controversy.
The second half saw Liverpool assert greater control. Their pressing improved, forcing Arsenal deeper and allowing the visitors to sustain pressure around the home side’s penalty area. Dominik Szoboszlai attempted several efforts from distance, but Arsenal’s compact box defending ensured Raya remained untroubled.
Momentum briefly swung Arsenal’s way midway through the half, with the hosts threatening from set pieces and quick counters. Liverpool responded with calm possession play, recycling the ball and preventing Arsenal from building sustained attacks.
Late on, the tension increased as both teams searched for a breakthrough. Arsenal pushed higher, while Liverpool looked for space in behind, but the final moments passed without a decisive chance, confirming the stalemate.
The result leaves Liverpool fourth in the Premier League table and highlights the impact of missing key attacking figures. Mohamed Salah was away on international duty, while Alexander Isak and Hugo Ekitike were unavailable through injury, limiting Arne Slot’s options in the final third.
Attention now turns to domestic cup action, with Liverpool set to face League One side Barnsley in the FA Cup before returning to league duty against Burnley at Anfield, where they will aim to rediscover their usual attacking rhythm.