This archive report was first published on 14 January 2022.
On a night when Liverpool were expected to dominate, Arsenal's 10 men stood firm to secure a crucial 0-0 draw in the League Cup semi-final first leg at Anfield on January 13, 2022.
Swiss midfielder Granit Xhaka was given his marching orders in the 24th minute for a high challenge on Liverpool's Diogo Jota, which left the Portuguese forward clutching his ribs in pain.
Despite being reduced to 10 men, Arsenal's defense held strong, with manager Mikel Arteta making a tactical switch by bringing on defender Rob Holding in place of striker Eddie Nketiah.
Despite enjoying most of the possession, Liverpool struggled to break down Arsenal's resolute defense, which was bolstered by the absence of Mohamed Salah and Sadio Mane, who were playing at the Africa Cup of Nations.
Arsenal's best chance came in the 71st minute when Bukayo Saka forced a save from Alisson, while Liverpool's Takumi Minamino missed a golden opportunity when he fired over the bar from close range in the 90th minute.
The first leg was originally scheduled for last week at Arsenal but was postponed due to the COVID-19 situation at Liverpool. The winners after next week's second leg in London will face Chelsea in the final at Wembley on February 27.
