Arsenal and Liverpool Share Points in Tense Goalless Emirates Draw

Arsenal maintained control of the title race as Liverpool were held to a hard-fought draw in a rain-soaked Emirates showdown

Arsenal and Liverpool battled to a 0-0 goalless draw at the Emirates Stadium on January 8, 2026, showcasing intensity, controversy, and tactical intrigue but producing no goals. The Gunners dominated large spells yet failed to break through, while Liverpool dug in and secured a point that kept the title race finely poised.

Mikel Arteta’s side entered the contest on a five-game winning run and with a six-point lead at the top of the Premier League. Liverpool, chasing ground under Arne Slot, approached the fixture cautiously, prioritising defensive structure over attacking ambition.

Buy Arsenal's 2025–26 Home Kit through the ArsenalTalks Shop

Click this link to buy the new 2025–26 Arsenal home kit through our ArsenalTalks Shop.

Heavy rain set the tone for a physical and demanding contest in north London. Arsenal controlled possession from the opening minutes, pressing aggressively through Bukayo Saka and Jurrien Timber while pinning Liverpool deep.

Despite that dominance, clear chances remained scarce. Liverpool’s compact low block limited space between the lines, forcing Arsenal wide and restricting Viktor Gyökeres’ involvement in central areas.

Liverpool nearly punished Arsenal against the run of play when Conor Bradley attempted an audacious chip over David Raya from distance. The effort struck the crossbar before Jurrien Timber reacted quickly to shut down Cody Gakpo on the rebound.

Liverpool Grow Into Game After the Break

The second half saw Liverpool increase their attacking intent. Florian Wirtz and Dominik Szoboszlai began to find pockets of space, while Liverpool’s set-piece delivery caused Arsenal moments of discomfort.

A brief VAR check followed when Leandro Trossard challenged Wirtz inside the penalty area, but officials ruled out any infringement. Szoboszlai later tested Raya twice from long-range free kicks, with one effort flashing narrowly wide.

As frustration grew, the Emirates crowd urged Arsenal forward, but Liverpool’s defensive discipline continued to frustrate the league leaders.

Arteta introduced Gabriel Martinelli and Gabriel Jesus in an attempt to inject energy into the attack. Later changes raised eyebrows when the Arsenal manager withdrew captain Martin Ødegaard and Bukayo Saka with 12 minutes remaining, replacing them with Noni Madueke and Eberechi Eze.

Liverpool also suffered injury concerns, with Conor Bradley forced off in stoppage time, compounding a difficult night for Slot’s already stretched squad.

Despite late pressure from both sides, neither goalkeeper faced a decisive moment as the match drifted towards a stalemate.

Key Performances at the Emirates

Bukayo Saka (Arsenal): Arsenal’s most consistent threat, repeatedly targeting Liverpool’s left side and delivering dangerous balls into the box.

Jurrien Timber (Arsenal): Outstanding defensively, reacting sharply to danger and limiting Liverpool transitions.

Title Race Impact After Arsenal Liverpool Goalless Draw

The draw keeps Arsenal six points clear at the summit, maintaining firm control of the title race despite missing the chance to extend their lead. Liverpool remain well adrift and now face questions over their inability to convert tight games into victories.

Arsenal will look to respond immediately when they travel to Brentford next, while Liverpool host Crystal Palace seeking renewed momentum.

In a season defined by fine margins, this Arsenal Liverpool goalless draw may yet prove a pivotal moment in the Premier League title race.

Want more Arsenal updates? Visit our homepage.