Need to know
Liverpool were held to a goalless draw with Leeds United in the Premier League at Anfield on New Year's Day
Hugo Ekitike during Liverpool's clash with Leeds United
Hugo Ekitike was frustrated during Liverpool's clash with Leeds United
(Image: Jan Kruger/Getty Images)
A historic stalemate: This result marked Liverpool's first goalless draw in the Premier League for 117 matches, dating back to late 2023. It also ended a 20-match scoring streak for the Reds in head-to-head fixtures against Leeds.
Ekitike’s costly miss: Hugo Ekitike had the best chance of the game in the first half when Jeremie Frimpong picked him out at the back post. With the goal gaping from just a few yards out, the striker somehow headed the ball away from the target.
Alisson’s rare lapse: The Liverpool goalkeeper nearly gifted Leeds a goal when he passed the ball directly to Ethan Ampadu. Fortunately for the Brazilian, Ampadu’s resulting shot lacked power, allowing Alisson to scramble back and save his own mistake.
Leeds defensive masterclass: Daniel Farke’s side executed an impressive defensive strategy, led by the centre-back pairing of Jaka Bijol and Pascal Struijk. They successfully stifled Liverpool's creative stars, limiting the hosts to hopeful crosses and blocked shots.
Calvert-Lewin’s offside drama: Coming off the bench, Dominic Calvert-Lewin thought he had scored a late winner for Leeds in the 81st minute. However, the goal was quickly ruled out by the assistant referee for an offside in the build-up.
Van Dijk’s late threat: In the closing stages, Virgil van Dijk found himself unmarked during a corner and had a golden opportunity to win it. His powerful header hit the ground and bounced wide of the post, much to the frustration of the Anfield crowd.
League table impact: The draw leaves Liverpool in fourth place, moving them three points clear of chasing rivals Chelsea and Manchester United. Meanwhile, Leeds extended their own unbeaten run to six games, pulling seven points clear of the relegation zone.