Gabriel growls then hugs Darwin Nunez after missed Liverpool chance during Arsenal win

Gabriel demonstrated his passion towards Darwin Nunez late on in Arsenal's crucial win against Liverpool.

The Gunners beat the Reds 3-1 at the Emirates Stadium in what will be a huge boost for their Premier League title chances.

Arsenal took the lead twice in the match, with Gabriel Martinelli's goal in the 67th minute setting them on course for victory.

During the latter stages, Liverpool substitute Nunez blazed a shot over the bar in what was a great opportunity to equalise.

Gabriel knew just how important that was for Arsenal and celebrated by shouting towards the Reds star.

He then gave his fellow South American a quick hug before play resumed, with the Gunners going on to claim all three points.

They took the lead through Bukayo Saka earlier on in the first-half, with the winger scoring the rebound from Kai Havertz's miss.

Gabriel was the heart of a defensive mix-up on the stroke of half-time though as he bundled the ball into the back of his own net.

Liverpool's goal came after zero shots on target in the opening 45 minutes but they too produced a costly error in defence.

Virgil van Dijk and Alisson lacked communication when dealing with a long ball from Arsenal, which allowed Martinelli to score an open goal.

The Gunners remained resilient as Liverpool pushed for what would have been a second equaliser and their efforts paid off.

Leandro Trossard came off the bench and scored through the legs of Alisson to make it game, set and match in north London.

Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta couldn't contain his excitement and wildly ran down the touchline amid the jubilant scenes.

Arsenal have moved within two points of Liverpool, who still sit top of the table despite picking up their second league defeat this season.