Alexis Mac Allister’s late strike sealed a 1-0 victory at the City Ground and instantly tightened the race at the top.
Liverpool’s season took a huge turn on February 22 after a dramatic 97th-minute winner against Nottingham Forest.
Alexis Mac Allister’s late strike sealed a 1-0 victory at the City Ground and instantly tightened the race at the top.
It was not a pretty performance, especially after Florian Wirtz’s injury during the warmup.
Forest dominated long spells, especially in the first half.
They fired 12 shots before the break, but Liverpool held firm. That defensive resilience proved decisive.
The late goal now carries massive weight.
It brought Liverpool level on points with both Manchester United and Chelsea. Just weeks ago, that situation looked unlikely.
Now, the three clubs are locked together, and the next month will shape the season.
Arne Slot admitted how difficult the match was.
He said, “Draw would’ve been fairer.”
His blunt half-time message also showed how poor Liverpool were early on.
He told his players it was the “Worst first half we’ve played.”
The game also highlighted big talking points.
Mohamed Salah struggled again.
He had no shots and extended his longest Premier League goal drought.
At the same time, teenager Rio Ngumoha impressed after coming on.
Slot praised him after the game, saying, “He has incredible potential.”
“He’s making progress more and more, and that’s why lately you see him playing more and more.”
That win kept Liverpool firmly alive in what is now a three-team sprint.
Liverpool now face a crucial run of fixtures.
Their schedule is heavy at Anfield, which gives them a clear opportunity.
They host West Ham on February 28, then travel to Wolves on March 3.
Tottenham visit Anfield on March 15, followed by an away trip to Brighton on March 21. Fulham then come to Anfield on April 11.
Manchester United have one game in hand but face tougher travel.
They go to Everton on February 23. Newcastle away on March 4 will be another major test.
They also visit Bournemouth later in March.
Chelsea arguably have the hardest run.
They face Arsenal away, then Aston Villa away within days.
They also still have to play Manchester City.
From a Liverpool supporter’s view, the equation is simple.
Win the home games, stay close in the away ones, and the title race stays alive.
Right now, the margins are razor thin.
The next five matches could decide everything.
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