Promoted Side Extends Unbeaten Run to Six, While Slot’s Reds Make Sluggish Start to 2026
Leeds United earned a hard-fought and well-deserved point at Anfield on Wednesday, holding a blunt Liverpool to a 0-0 draw that extended their unbeaten Premier League run to six games.
The stalemate was defined by a glaring missed opportunity from Leeds forward Hugo Ekitike midway through the first half. The Frenchman somehow headed wide of an open goal from point-blank range after meeting Jeremie Frimpong’s inviting cross, spurning the clearest chance of a subdued encounter.
“It was a good battle against a great side,” said Leeds defender James Justin, who was named Player of the Match. “A pat on the back for us.”
Liverpool, despite dominating possession, struggled to create clear-cut chances. A second-half header wide from Virgil van Dijk was the closest they came to breaking the deadlock, leaving manager Arne Slot with a frustrating start to the new year.
Leeds thought they had stolen all three points late on when substitute Dominic Calvert-Lewin found the net, but the offside flag denied him and preserved the draw. The result lifts Daniel Farke’s side seven points clear of the relegation zone.
For Liverpool, the performance drew criticism from club legend Jamie Carragher. “This was a big opportunity after other results this week,” Carragher said on Sky Sports. “Performances will have to improve in the second half of the season to make sure Liverpool play in the Champions League next season.”
While Leeds head into 2026 with growing confidence, Liverpool are left to ponder how to reignite their attacking spark after an underwhelming display in front of their home fans.
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