Dominik Szoboszlai curled a sublime set-piece past Arsenal keeper David Raya with seven minutes left at Anfield in a tense clash between the two leading contenders for the Premier League crown.

The Hungary midfielder's gem was enough to seal a third successive league victory for champions Liverpool as Arsenal lost for the first time this term following consecutive wins.

Arsenal finished as runners-up behind Liverpool last season and the clubs have been engaged in an expensive arms race since the end of the season.

A host of high-profile signings aimed at tilting the balance of power in the title race have arrived at Anfield and the Emirates Stadium.

Liverpool's Florian Wirtz and Hugo Ekitike and Arsenal's Martin Zubimendi and Viktor Gyokeres had their chance to shine under the spotlight on Sunday.

None of the new additions dazzled. Szoboszlai, deployed out of position at right-back, to provide the defining moment.

Zubimendi fouled Curtis Jones 25 yards from goal and Szoboszlai stepped up to delivered a masterful finish.

Liverpool, who have the only 100 percent record left in the top tier, go into the international break in a familiar position on top of the table as they chase a record 21st English title.

Arsenal must lick their wounds after a result that suggested their bid to end a run of three successive second places finishes is still a work in progress.