Obdurate Leeds keep toiling Liverpool at arm’s length to earn point

By Guardian Sport | Anfield | 1 January 2026

In a tense New Year's Day clash at Anfield, Liverpool were held to a frustrating 0-0 draw by a resolute Leeds United, extending their winless run amid mounting pressure on manager Arne Slot. The obdurate visitors, toiling under the weight of their relegation battle, earned a precious point through sheer defensive grit, frustrating the hosts despite their dominance in possession.[3][4]

Liverpool, sitting 10th with 32 points from 19 games, controlled the ball but lacked cutting edge. Early chances fell flat: Conor Bradley's foul on Gabriel Gudmundsson gifted Leeds a free kick at the 2-minute mark, setting a combative tone. Slot's side, featuring Giorgi Mamardashvili in goal, Calvin Ramsay at right-back, and Federico Chiesa up top, pressed relentlessly but couldn't break through.[1]

Dominic Calvert-Lewin, on loan at Liverpool, came closest for the Reds, striking the post in the second half with a powerful header from a corner. Leeds, 14th with 20 points from 18 matches (5-5-8 record), absorbed pressure masterfully. Goalkeeper Illan Meslier produced key saves, while Milos Kerkez and the backline, including stand-in defenders, stood firm against waves of attacks.[1][4]

The draw leaves Liverpool trailing top-four hopefuls like Chelsea and Manchester United (both on 30 points), intensifying scrutiny on Slot's tactics. Leeds, buoyed by the point, climb slightly in the table, ahead of sides like Bournemouth (23 points). Substitutes like Kerkez added fresh legs, but neither side found a breakthrough in a match defined by missed opportunities and heroic defending.[1]

Fans at Anfield grew restless as the game wore on, with chants for change echoing. For Leeds, it's a morale boost in their survival fight; for Liverpool, a stark reminder of their inconsistencies this season. Next up: Liverpool host Brentford, while Leeds face Newcastle.[1]

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