Two of the most successful football teams in English football history are Liverpool and Arsenal. The supporters of both clubs have fond memories of many of the games in which the two teams have squared off. This weekend's game between Arsenal and Liverpool at Anfield is expected to be fierce. As the Gunners must prove their title credentials in a 3-point game at Anfield, the Reds are hoping to solidify their Champions League spot. But, this next match may not amount to much more than a footnote in the history of the rivalry between two of England's most prosperous teams.
The two have engaged in some of the most memorable games in English football history throughout the years, with significant ramifications for both teams.
Here is a list of 5 best games between the two teams:
● Liverpool 3-6 Arsenal: January 9, 2007
Even though this match was part of the Carling Cup, it is noteworthy for its result and demonstrates the unpredictable nature of games involving these two sides. Arsenal defeated Liverpool with ease with four goals from Julio Baptista, securing a Carling Cup semi final matchup with rival Tottenham. Even while Liverpool never truly came close to stealing the victory from Arsenal, Steven Gerrard did at one time reduce the Gunners' advantage to 5-3.
● Arsenal 4-4 Liverpool: April 21, 2009
With his explosive talent, Andrey Arshavin quickly established himself as Arsenal's record acquisition. In what is perhaps his best-ever performance for Arsenal, he slammed four goals past Liverpool in a thrilling tie. After an Anfield classic against Arsenal, Liverpool regained the lead in the Premier League, but Andrei Arshavin's amazing four-goal haul dealt significant damage to their title hopes.
● Liverpool 4-2 Arsenal: April 8, 2008
A very tense encounter took place at Anfield following the first leg of this Champions League quarterfinal's 1-1 draw between the two clubs at the Emirates. With a thrilling comeback victory over Arsenal, Liverpool advanced to a Champions League semi final against Chelsea. Abou Diaby gave Arsenal an early advantage, but Sami Hyypia let Phillipe Senderos score with a header to tie the score. When Fernando Torres scored in the top corner, it appeared to be the end of the matter. But, Emmanuel Adebayor was able to tap in after a brilliant run by Theo Walcott. Nevertheless, Ryan Babel was fouled by Kolo Toure, and Gerrard kept his composure from the penalty spot before Babel broke to add a fourth.
● Arsenal 2-0 Liverpool: 1950 FA Cup Final
Perhaps the match that ignited the rivalry was this one. Reg Lewis scored both goals as Arsenal defeated the opposition 2-0 to win the FA Cup for a record third time. Denis Compton, a cricketer, and his brother Leslie were both members of the Arsenal squad. In this first meeting of the two teams with any real historical significance, an astounding 100,000 spectators crammed into the old Wembley Stadium to witness a brace from Reg Lewis lead Arsenal to victory.
● Arsenal 2-1 Liverpool: 1971 FA Cup Final
21 years later, the two clubs faced off again in the FA Cup final, and once more an Arsenal squad defeated its Merseyside rivals. After extra time, Arsenal prevailed 2-1, scoring all three goals within the additional 30 minutes. Liverpool's Steve Heighway scored the game's first goal with a low shot that went past Wilson's near post. George Graham's scrambling goal, commonly ascribed to replacement Eddie Kelly even though television footage clearly demonstrates Graham's final touch, gave Arsenal the advantage.
Also Read | Best Chelsea vs Liverpool encounters
