Liverpool 1-1 Burnley: Reds Held by Promoted Side in Frustrating Anfield Draw

Liverpool were held to a disappointing 1-1 draw by relegation-threatened Burnley at Anfield on January 17, 2026, in the Premier League's Matchweek 22, marking a rare stumble against another promoted team.[1][3][4]

The match began with Liverpool asserting dominance, but it was Florian Wirtz who broke the deadlock for the visitors in the first half with a moment of brilliance, showcasing his 35 chances created and 25 take-ons—standout stats in a resilient Burnley performance.[1][2][5] Liverpool, sitting 10th with 35 points, piled on the pressure, registering 32 shots but failing to convert, epitomizing their wastefulness.[3][4][6]

The Reds were handed a golden opportunity to level when awarded a penalty, but Dominik Szoboszlai blazed it over the bar, compounding Liverpool's woes and drawing sharp criticism in player ratings.[5] Despite Mohamed Salah's three assists and Hugo Ekitike's eight goals this season, the home side couldn't find a breakthrough.[2][4]

Burnley, languishing 15th with 13 points from 3 wins, 4 draws, and 14 losses (-19 goal difference), defended stoutly. Standouts included J. Anthony with five goals, Q. Hartman (four assists), and Josh Cullen (two assists), frustrating the hosts.[2][4] This result equals Liverpool's 45-year worst in terms of missed chances against lower-table opposition.[3]

Pre-match odds heavily favored Liverpool (-450 to win), yet the draw (+550) prevailed, extending their poor run against promoted sides.[2][7] Liverpool's record now stands at 10-5-6, while Burnley cling on with gritty resolve.[4] The point leaves the Reds trailing top-four contenders like Aston Villa (43 points) and drops them in a tightening mid-table battle.[4]

Man of the match honors likely went to Wirtz for his magic, as Liverpool rue another dropped points in the title race.[1][5] (298 words)