National Media React as Liverpool Suffer 'Embarrassing' Lapse in Burnley Draw

Liverpool's title defense hit a snag as they were held to a frustrating 1-1 draw by struggling Burnley at Anfield on January 17, 2026, prompting sharp criticism from national media outlets[1][2][3]. The Reds dominated with 32 shots and an expected goals tally of 2.96 but failed to break down Burnley's low-block 5-4-1 setup, allowing Marcus Edwards to equalize with the visitors' only shot on target in the 65th minute[2][3][4].

The match unfolded with Liverpool probing early. A penalty was awarded after Florentino Luis fouled Cody Gakpo, but Dominik Szoboszlai crashed it off the crossbar—his second miss in 22 career spot-kicks—drawing Anfield's ire[1][3][4]. Florian Wirtz redeemed the first half, smashing home in the 42nd minute after Hugo Ekitike's pivotal work recycled a Curtis Jones shot, marking his fourth goal in seven games[1][3].

Despite six changes by Arne Slot—including returns for Alisson, Ekitike, Ryan Gravenberch, Milos Kerkez, Ibrahima Konate, and Wirtz—Liverpool couldn't kill the game. Ibrahima Konate nearly scored an own goal, and Edwards exploited space on the left, firing low past Alisson after Konate's failed close-down[1][2][3]. Late substitutes like Federico Chiesa couldn't salvage a winner despite sustained pressure on Martin Dubravka's goal[1]. Attendance was 60,431[1].

Media reactions were scathing. Sky Sports highlighted Liverpool's struggles against low blocks, noting prior Anfield slips against Leeds, Nottingham Forest, Sunderland, and now Burnley[2]. ESPN called it a "one-sided" affair where Liverpool's "inability to manage games" cost dearly against a Burnley winless in 13 league matches, shrinking their margin for error—now just seven points from 15 against promoted sides like Sunderland and Leeds[3][4]. Wirtz's post-match verdict was blunt: the draw "feels like a defeat"[7]. Burnley manager Scott Parker praised Edwards' "super finish," extending their decent Anfield record[5]. Liverpool remain top with 36 points from 22 games, but cracks are showing[3].

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