Photo by Andrew Powell/Liverpool FC via Getty Images

Liverpool beat Arsenal 2-1 in Philadelphia on Wednesday night.

Liverpool 2 - 1 Arsenal

Liverpool: Salah ’, Carvalho ’
Arsenal: Havertz ’

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Pre-Match

Curtis Jones is deemed fit to return to the team after suffering an injury against Real Betis. He starts in the midfield. Diogo Jota also gets his first taste of pre-season action since joining the team on Thursday.

It’s a cool 86 degrees Fahrenheit in Philadelphia this evening, so the players have that to look forward to.

First Half

While the opening few minutes were rocky for the Reds, with a close call after a misplaced ball from Kelleher, it’s Liverpool who get the first goal. And it’s no surprise who hits it in. Mohamed Salah gets his first goal of the 2024-25 (pre-)season. Harvey Elliott got it to Salah, who had no trouble racing clear and getting the first goal.

Jarell Quansah blocks an otherwise certain goal with a lovely clearance in front of the goal. Jesus would have had a simple tap-in, but Quansah continues proving himself. He’s making a strong case for himself to be the man paired with Virgil van Dijk this season.

Fabio Carvalho made it two goals thanks to another Elliott assist. He floated the ball up and over the defense and right to Carvalho, who volleyed it in passed the keeper.

Before halftime, Arsenal pull one back through Kai Havertz. The goal is another easy tap-in, this time with any heroics from Quansah to save them.

The teams go into the tunnel with Liverpool leading 2-1.

Second Half

Elliott was truly living his best life on the pitch. He was easily the best player out there, and seemed to be really feeling himself. I hope we see his Elliott when the season begins properly.

The rest of the team was taken off with about 20 minutes left, leaving a bunch of academy players and Stefan Bajcetic to hold things down until the final whistle.

Arsenal’s still strong side were pushing for another goal as the time wore on. Endo got himself booked from a late tackle. Nyoni nearly grabbed a third goal for Liverpool, but his effort was saved.

In the end, the game finished in another Liverpool victory.

Final Thoughts

Another good friendly for the players to stretch their legs. Elliott looked on the ball. Salah knocked in his first goal.