The Liverpool overcame Southampton 3-1, taking another solid step towards the Premier League title. With 70 points in 28 matches, Arne Slot's team has now established a 16-point advantage over second-placed Arsenal, who still have Manchester United to play. On top of that, their run without defeat has been extended to 25 games.
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If anyone was in doubt who would reign supreme in the Premier League this season, Liverpool cleared them. And more importantly, it demonstrated that once this team gets into its stride, few can arrest their tide.
A scare in the first half but sheer domination in the second
Liverpool started like a team that knew it had to take the initiative early. Within less than a minute, Curtis Jones was already testing the defense of the opponent. The Reds' midfield played with pace, and they were in command of the ball. But Southampton, stubborn and well-organized, did not crack so readily.
The punishment was given just before half-time. Mateus Fernandes took advantage of a moment of defensive laxity, and Smallbone scored with little trouble. Anfield silence. Shocking? Yes. But by no means authentic.
Liverpool replaced three of their players at halftime, Robertson, Mac Allister, and Harvey Elliott replaced them. That was when the game shifted. The home team returned with a new rhythm, a new attitude. Southampton didn't have much time to settle before Liverpool destroyed any chances they may have had within three minutes.
Luis Díaz had his blade in Kyle Walker-Peters before placing one on a plate for Darwin Núñez, who scored from it with gleeful abandon. Shortly thereafter, Smallbone took the Uruguayan down inside the box, and Salah didn't miss. 2-1. Comeback done.
An unmistakable declaration and a warning to Arsenal
If Southampton were considering a response, Alisson made sure that would not be on the cards. The Brazilian goalkeeper made a crucial save from Cameron Archer, but by then, Liverpool was in total control. Elliott then fashioned another good chance before a Yukinari Sugawara handball presented the Reds with one last penalty. Salah came forward again and made it his own, securing the 3-1 win.
This wasn't just another victory, it was a message. Arsenal, even clinging to its title hopes, understands that one error can be the coffin nail. The gap is now 16 points. With Liverpool's consistency, it does not seem probable that someone will be capable of catching up with them.
An unstoppable Liverpool and a league already won?
Twenty-five matches without defeat. Liverpool have a confidence and discipline that is unmatched by many teams. They possess a good defense, an explosive midfield, and an unstoppable attack that transform Arne Slot's team into a finely oiled machine.
Arsenal still has to face Manchester United, but the truth is, the Gunners are not only fighting Liverpool in the standings, they're fighting the pressure of a team that won't quit and knows what it desires. And that is the worst nightmare for any adversary: Liverpool doesn't appear to be willing to give anyone a chance. If it wasn't clear before, it is now. The Premier League has its champion.