Mikel Arteta needed a show of character from Arsenal at a ground where they have displayed little in recent years. He appeared to require a miracle too when Granit Xhaka’s latest red card gave Liverpool 66 minutes plus five minutes of stoppage time to seize control of the Carabao Cup semi-final. He received both, and more, as Arsenal produced a tireless display to stifle Jürgen Klopp’s team at Anfield.
There is a long way to go in this semi-final but the reaction to the final whistle demonstrated where the advantage lies, and who departed the first leg with greater belief. Arsenal’s exhausted players exchanged high-fives while their fans celebrated a goalless draw in the Anfield Road stand. Liverpool lacked inspiration and penetration throughout, and must rediscover both to progress to a final meeting with Chelsea on 27 February.
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