Liverpool 0-0 Leeds (Jan 1, 2026) Game Analysis

Liverpool's winning run ended in a frustrating 0-0 draw at Anfield against a resilient Leeds side, who secured their first clean sheet since August. The stalemate, Liverpool's second against Leeds in less than a month, extended the visitors' unbeaten streak to six matches while denting the hosts' title hopes, leaving them unable to close the gap to third-placed Aston Villa to four points.[2]

First Half: Missed Opportunities

Liverpool dominated possession but lacked cutting edge despite creative play from summer signing Florian Wirtz and Jeremie Frimpong deployed wide right in Mohamed Salah's role. Frimpong delivered dangerous crosses, including three in quick succession through the six-yard box, but strikers failed to connect, drawing groans from the Anfield crowd. Hugo Ekitike headed one onto goalkeeper Lucas Perri.[2]

Leeds' best chance arose from a misplaced clearance by Alisson Becker, which fell to Ethan Ampadu, but the keeper recovered to claim the shot. Manager Arne Slot found a small positive in not conceding from set pieces for the third straight game, following the recent dismissal of set-piece coach Aaron Briggs.[2]

Second Half: Building Pressure

Pressure mounted on Leeds early in the second half, with Dominik Szoboszlai testing Perri from distance in the 60th minute. Anfield erupted when Virgil van Dijk headed Szoboszlai's corner goalward, only for it to bounce wide. There was no repeat of the chaotic 3-3 draw at Elland Road earlier, as Liverpool's patient build-up suited Leeds' organization.[2]

Late Drama

Former Everton striker Dominic Calvert-Lewin, in top form with goals in his last six games, entered for the final 20 minutes. He thought he'd won it with his first Anfield goal, but an offside flag denied him after stretching to poke home. The draw felt more painful for Liverpool, who squandered chances against a disciplined Leeds defense.[2]

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