Liverpool vs Arsenal: 3 Instant Classic Matches in Recent Memory

When Liverpool and Arsenal clash, it’s more than just a football match; it's a thrilling spectacle that often leaves fans on the edge of their seats.

Over the years, these encounters have provided some unforgettable moments. And with Liverpool taking on Arsenal in a mouth-watering preseason friendly, we thought about reminiscing some of the thrillers these two English giants have played out. So, here are three match ups between the Gunners and the Reds that have truly become instant classics. 

1)  Liverpool 4 – 4 Arsenal (April 21st, 2009) 

This match was an absolute rollercoaster and is often hailed as one of the greatest Premier League games ever. Played at Anfield, the game had everything: goals, drama, and unforgettable performances. Arsenal's Andrey Arshavin was the star of the show, scoring all four goals for the Gunners in a stunning individual display. 

The match started with Arsenal taking the lead through Arshavin, only for Fernando Torres and Yossi Benayoun to turn it around for Liverpool. Arshavin then scored two quick goals to complete his hat-trick and put Arsenal back in front. Torres equalized again for Liverpool, but Arshavin wasn't done yet, scoring his fourth to make it 4-3. Just when it seemed Arsenal would snatch victory, Benayoun popped up in injury time to secure a dramatic 4-4 draw.  

2) Liverpool 5 –1 Arsenal (February 8th, 2014) 

When Anfield gets going, even the most seasoned and experienced players can be overwhelmed by the sheer volume of the Kop. The electric atmosphere of an Anfield crowd can rival the best atmospheres in the world. And on this day, Anfield was rocking. 

Liverpool's blitzkrieg start to this match left Arsenal shell-shocked. Within 20 minutes, Liverpool had raced to a 4-0 lead, with goals from Martin Skrtel (2), Raheem Sterling, and Daniel Sturridge. It was a performance of sheer dominance from Liverpool, and Arsenal had no answers. 

The Reds' high pressing and rapid counter-attacks were too much for Arsenal to handle. Sterling added a fifth in the second half to complete the rout, although current Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta scored a consolation penalty for the Gunners. The final score was 5-1, and it could have been even worse for Arsenal. 

3) Arsenal 3 – 4 Liverpool (August 14th, 2016) 

The opening weekend of the 2016-17 Premier League season delivered an absolute thriller at the Emirates Stadium. Arsenal took the lead through Theo Walcott, who had earlier missed a penalty. Liverpool responded in style, with Philippe Coutinho scoring a stunning free-kick just before halftime. 

The second half saw Liverpool take control, with goals from Adam Lallana, Coutinho again, and Sadio Mane, giving them a commanding 4-1 lead. Arsenal, however, showed great character to fight back, with Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and Calum Chambers making it 4-3. 

The final stages of the match were frantic, with Arsenal pushing for an equalizer and Liverpool holding on for dear life. In the end, Liverpool managed to secure a thrilling 4-3 victory. 

Also Read: Arsenal vs Liverpool -- Club Friendlies -- Head-to-Head, Team News and Updates