Liverpool were forced to settle for a 1-1 draw against a spirited Sunderland side at Anfield, with a late Nordi Mukiele own goal rescuing the hosts from what would have been a stunning defeat. In a tense Premier League showdown that kept fans on the edge of their seats, both sides walked away with a point – but Sunderland will feel they deserved more after an impressive showing.
⚽ First Half: Liverpool Start Sharp, Sunderland Grow Into the Game
Liverpool began with intent, determined to avoid back-to-back home defeats for the first time since 2012. Dominik Szoboszlai and Florian Wirtz tested goalkeeper Robin Roefs early, while Cody Gakpo’s movement consistently troubled the Black Cats’ defence.
But Sunderland did not come to Merseyside to defend. Their confidence grew as the half progressed, sparked by Trai Hume’s thunderous effort that forced Alisson into tipping the ball onto the bar.
Liverpool nearly snatched the lead just before halftime when Alexis Mac Allister powered a header against the post from Joe Gomez’s delivery. That missed confirmed an unwanted milestone: the Reds had failed to score in the first half of four straight Premier League matches – their most extended barren spell since February 2023.
🔁 Second Half Shift: Salah Introduced, But Sunderland Strike First
Arne Slot reacted immediately, introducing Mohamed Salah at the break to ignite Liverpool’s attack. The Reds enjoyed a lively spell, but Sunderland remained dangerous in transition. Omar Alderete came close with a flicked header that grazed the post.
The visitors’ pressing became increasingly disruptive, and it eventually paid off. With just over 20 minutes left, Chemsdine Talbi punished a stray pass from Virgil van Dijk, unleashing a fierce strike that deflected off the Dutch defender and beat Alisson at full stretch. Sunderland had a deserved 1-0 lead and the confidence to fight for more.
🔥 Liverpool Fight Back: Mukiele Own Goal Brings Late Relief
Sunderland dropped deeper to protect their advantage, but Liverpool’s pressure was relentless. In the 81st minute, Curtis Jones set up Florian Wirtz, who danced his way into the box and fired goalward. The effort appeared off-target, but a heavy deflection off Nordi Mukiele diverted the ball into the net.
Anfield roared — the Reds were level at 1-1.
Liverpool threw bodies forward chasing a winner, but the gamble almost cost them everything. Wilson Isidor sprinted away on a late counter for Sunderland and looked sure to score, only for Federico Chiesa to produce a match-saving block on the line.
📊 Final Whistle: Points Shared, Questions Remain for Liverpool
Liverpool escaped with a point, but the performance raised plenty of concerns. Poor decision-making, shaky build-up play, and defensive errors continue to haunt Slot’s side.
Sunderland, meanwhile, will leave Merseyside proud yet frustrated. They were minutes away from their first win at Anfield since 1983, and on another day, they would have sealed all three points.
For Kenyan fans following the Premier League closely, this match highlighted the league’s growing competitiveness, where even newly promoted teams can trouble giants on any given weekend.
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