Liverpool delivered a powerful statement in their Premier League title pursuit with Darwin Nunez's late double securing a crucial 2-0 victory at Brentford, while Arsenal stumbled against Aston Villa, extending the Reds' lead at the top to six points with a game in hand.
The significance of this victory became even more apparent when Arsenal later squandered a two-goal advantage at home against Aston Villa, leaving Arne Slot's Liverpool in a commanding position in the title race.
After recent draws against Manchester United and Nottingham Forest had raised questions about Liverpool's title credentials, their resilience was tested at Brentford, who boast the third-best home record in the division. The Reds dominated with an impressive 37 shots but had to wait until injury time for Nunez to break the deadlock with a close-range finish, followed by his second goal just two minutes later.
Brentford manager Thomas Frank offered high praise for Liverpool, stating, "They're a level above Arsenal and Manchester City. They're complete. Their work ethic, the way they track back, are good indicators. They're so good all over the pitch. Such a threat going forward. It's the best team in the Premier League and the world. They're huge favourites to win it."
Former Liverpool midfielder Danny Murphy echoed these sentiments on BBC Match of the Day, asserting that any doubts about Liverpool's form were "put to bed." Ashley Williams added his prediction that Liverpool, with their strongest squad, would clinch the league title.
The contrast in fortunes was stark as Arsenal's collapse against Villa unfolded. Despite leading 2-0 through goals from Gabriel Martinelli and Kai Havertz, the Gunners conceded twice in a dramatic eight-minute spell to Youri Tielemans and Ollie Watkins. A potential late winner for Arsenal was ruled out by VAR for handball, marking their most points dropped from winning positions in a single campaign since 2019-20.
Former Arsenal player Paul Merson expressed his conviction on Sky Sports: "Liverpool scoring two goals in injury time - and Arsenal doing that, it's a massive swing - I would be shocked if Liverpool didn't win the league now."
Under new manager Arne Slot, Liverpool appears well-positioned to secure their 20th top-flight title, which would match Manchester United's record. Despite Mohamed Salah's recent goal drought, spanning three games, the emergence of Nunez as an impact substitute has added a new dimension to Liverpool's attack.
Slot praised Nunez's contribution, noting, "He's always having a lot of impact when he comes in, he brings energy and power. Most of our games are the last half hour in control around 18 yards, and that's where he's at his best." The Uruguayan forward, who joined for £64m from Benfica in June 2022, has now become a crucial tactical option for Slot's side, particularly in the closing stages of matches.
The dramatic victory at Brentford, coupled with Arsenal's setback, has positioned Liverpool as clear favorites in what's shaping up to be a memorable Premier League title race.
