“It feels like a defeat” – Florian Wirtz gives blunt verdict on Liverpool’s latest draw

Liverpool's Premier League title defense suffered a frustrating setback with a 1-1 draw against struggling Burnley at Anfield on January 17, 2026. Despite dominating possession and chances, Arne Slot's side dropped points against a team that had earned just three from their previous 36 available.[1][4][5]

Florian Wirtz was the standout performer, pulling the strings in midfield and scoring the Reds' only goal. The German international smashed home a stunning strike into the top corner after Curtis Jones recycled possession from Ibrahima Konaté's determined run and shot. It marked Wirtz's fourth goal and two assists in seven games, earning him man-of-the-match honors despite the result.[2][3][4]

Liverpool took the lead after Dominik Szoboszlai missed a penalty—smashing it against the crossbar following a soft foul on Cody Gakpo by Florentino Luis. The hosts boasts 73% possession and 32 shots (11 on target), but Burnley's compact 5-4-1 low block frustrated their attack. Momentum shifted post-hour mark when Marcus Edwards equalized with Burnley's lone shot on target in the 65th minute, exploiting a defensive lapse. Ibrahima Konaté's misjudged touch on Edwards' cross forced a brilliant save from Alisson Becker.[4]

Post-match, Wirtz delivered a blunt verdict: "It feels like a defeat." The draw highlighted ongoing struggles against defensive setups, with Cody Gakpo labeled "frustrating" again despite the penalty win. Slot's champions now face pressure to regroup, as dropped points against inferior opposition dent their title push.[1][2][5]

(Word count: 298)