Arsenal squandered a golden opportunity to take a commanding eight-point lead at the Premier League summit, held to a frustrating 0-0 draw by an injury-depleted Liverpool at the Emirates Stadium on a rain-swept Thursday night.
A Night of Missed Opportunity and Familiar Doubts
The result on January 8, 2026, means Mikel Arteta's side regained their six-point advantage but failed to deliver a decisive blow in the title race. Facing a weakened Reds side, this was widely viewed as two points dropped rather than one gained, a failure that reignites questions about the team's mentality after finishing as runners-up for three consecutive seasons.
Incredibly, this was the first time Arsenal have failed to score in any competition since their defeat at Anfield on August 31 of the previous year. The pre-match atmosphere, fuelled by a "fire up the furnace" light show, gave way to palpable frustration as the Gunners struggled to break down a resilient Liverpool defence.
Gyokeres' Anonymous Display Symbolises Attacking Woes
The central figure of Arsenal's frustration was once again record signing Viktor Gyokeres. The £64 million striker endured a miserably quiet evening, managing just eight touches in 64 minutes—his fewest in any match where he has played at least 20 minutes for the club.
While arguments about his work-rate and ability to occupy defenders persist, this was a night where Arsenal desperately needed a focal point in the penalty area. Time and again, Gyokeres was found dropping deep in search of the ball, leaving a void in the box when crosses were delivered. His ineffective performance led to him being substituted for Gabriel Jesus as Arsenal searched for a winner.
Liverpool Ride Their Luck and Finish Stronger
Despite Arsenal's early control, Liverpool created the clearest chance of the first half. A mix-up between William Saliba and goalkeeper David Raya presented the ball to Liverpool full-back Conor Bradley, whose ambitious 30-yard strike cannoned off the underside of the crossbar and away to safety.
After the break, Arsenal's level dropped significantly, allowing Liverpool to grow into the game. The introduction of Jesus and Gabriel Martinelli failed to provide the necessary spark, and it was the visitors who finished the stronger of the two sides, with the home crowd's anxiety becoming palpable.
Ultimately, a match that promised so much for Arsenal's title credentials ended in a damp squib. The failure to capitalise against a depleted rival, coupled with another anonymous display from their marquee striker, ensures the familiar doubts about their championship mettle will dominate the discourse in the days ahead.
