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Debate: What went wrong for Arsenal's second goal?

4 Feb 2024
Martinelli goal

Premier League pundits discuss Virgil van Dijk and Alisson's roles in Gabriel Martinelli's goal

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Liverpool gifted Arsenal their second goal in Sunday's 3-1 win as the Gunners shook up the title race, moving two points off the leaders. 

A long ball over the top by Gabriel was allowed to bounce by Virgil van Dijk, who held off Gabriel Martinelli and let the ball travel towards goal. Goalkeeper Alisson came out to clear but collided with Van Dijk and missed the ball, allowing Martinelli a simple finish into an empty net.

Martinelli goal 1
Martinelli goal 2
Martinelli goal 3

But what could have been done better? Should Van Dijk have taken control of the situation, or should Alisson have stayed on his line?

"The second goal shouldn't happen," Van Dijk said post-match. "I have to do much better. I'll learn from it.

"It was an awkward one. Alisson touched me a little bit and it was one of those freak situations. It's something I should improve but I will."

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What do the pundits think?

Michael Owen: "I thought it was Alisson's fault. Potentially Van Dijk could head the first one but after that he's in total control.

"If Alisson stays on his line, Van Dijk's happy, he's stronger, he's quicker, he's goal-side. A little bit of blame on Van Dijk but Alisson's the one that misses it and I think Van Dijk's doing a real captain's thing and taking the blame."

Martinelli goal 4

Dwight Yorke: "Rule No 1 is don't let the ball bounce. As much as Van Dijk was in control, you're allowing the attacker to get involved. And then it's a bunch of errors. Deal with the situation early doors. One mistake led to another."

Owen: "That's the only thing Van Dijk did wrong, though. It's Alisson that makes the big call. Alisson should stay where he is or make contact with the ball. Alisson's made the decision."

Ian Wright: "If Alisson doesn't come there's no way Martinelli gets on the right side of Virgil. It needed more communication from the goalkeeper." 

Martinelli goal 5

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