Liverpool 0-0 Leeds: Arne Slot’s Reds Held to Goalless Draw at Anfield

Liverpool kicked off 2026 with a frustrating 0-0 draw against an impressive Leeds United side at Anfield on New Year's Day in Premier League Matchweek 19. Arne Slot's team, expected to dominate, struggled to break down a resilient Leeds defense, extending their unbeaten run but failing to secure a vital win in the title race.[3]

The match was a tense affair from the start, with both teams creating chances but lacking clinical finishing. Liverpool dominated possession, hovering around 65%, and peppered the Leeds goal with shots, but Illan Meslier in the Leeds net was in inspired form, making several key saves. Early on, Darwin Núñez had a golden opportunity but blazed over, while Mohamed Salah tested Meslier with a curling effort just wide.[1][2]

Leeds, playing with confidence under their manager, grew into the game and nearly stole the lead. Dominic Calvert-Lewin came closest for the visitors, latching onto a through ball and forcing a brilliant one-on-one save from Alisson Becker midway through the second half. A late penalty shout for Leeds involving Hugo Ékitiké—who tumbled in the box under pressure from Virgil van Dijk—sparked controversy, but VAR waved it away, much to the frustration of the away fans.[3]

Defensively solid, Leeds frustrated Liverpool's attacks, with Joe Rodon and Pascal Struijk forming an impenetrable barrier. Slot's side introduced substitutes like Cody Gakpo and Diogo Jota late on, but they couldn't unlock the door. The goalless stalemate leaves Liverpool with work to do, as rivals close the gap atop the table.[1][2][4]

Post-match, Slot praised his team's dominance but lamented the lack of quality in the final third, while Leeds boss hailed his side's heroic display. Full highlights available from Sky Sports and NBC Sports.[1][2][3]

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