Liverpool Run Comes to a Grinding Halt as Leeds Hold Out for Anfield Stalemate

Liverpool's impressive unbeaten streak met a frustrating end at Anfield as they were held to a tense 0-0 draw by a resilient Leeds United in the Premier League on January 1, 2026. The Reds, entering the match with momentum from seven straight unbeaten games, labored throughout but couldn't break down a stubborn Leeds defense, extending their run to eight without a loss yet failing to secure a vital victory.[1][3][4]

The clash at Anfield kicked off at 17:30 UTC, with Liverpool dominating possession early but struggling to create clear chances. Conor Bradley's foul on Gabriel Gudmundsson gifted Leeds a free kick in the second minute, setting a combative tone. Substitutions like Alexis Mac Allister for Cody Gakpo around the 66th minute and others failed to ignite the hosts, while Leeds' Ethan Ampadu was booked for handball.[1][2]

Leeds, sitting 18th with 20 points from 18 games, frustrated Liverpool through disciplined defending and counter-threats. The visitors, managed astutely, held firm despite Liverpool's pressure, with the scoreline remaining deadlocked at halftime (0-0) and full-time after 90+2 minutes. Highlights show a lackluster affair, dubbed "boring" by fans, as the Reds underwhelmed in front of goal.[2][3][5]

Liverpool, fourth with 32 points from 18 matches (10 wins, 2 draws, 6 losses), saw their title push stutter. Standouts included Alisson Becker in goal and defenders like Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konaté, but midfielders Ryan Gravenberch and Dominik Szoboszlai couldn't unlock Leeds. For Leeds (5-5-8), the point was huge in their relegation fight, boosting survival hopes.[2][4]

Post-match, Arne Slot lamented the "grinding halt" to Liverpool's fluency, praising Leeds' resolve. The draw keeps Liverpool eight points off leaders Arsenal (45 points), with Manchester City (40) looming. Next, Liverpool face tougher tests, while Leeds aim to build on this Anfield heroism.[2][4][5]

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