Liverpool's hopes for a winning start to the new year were dashed at Anfield as they were held to a frustrating goalless draw by a resolute Leeds United side on Thursday 01 January 2026.
Leeds' Stubborn Defence Secures Point
The match marked the Reds' first stalemate without scoring under manager Arne Slot. Despite dominating possession for large periods, Liverpool found it impossible to break down a brilliantly organised Leeds defence. The visitors, arriving on a five-match unbeaten streak, fluidly shifted between a back three and five, expertly narrowing the space around their penalty area and suffocating Liverpool's attacking efforts.
Calvert-Lewin's Late Drama Ruled Out
Leeds' in-form striker Dominic Calvert-Lewin, who began the match on the bench, thought he had snatched a dramatic late winner for the Whites. However, his effort was correctly disallowed for offside, leaving the contest scoreless. This disciplined display from Daniel Farke's men arguably deserved more than a single point, but it successfully extends their impressive unbeaten run to six matches, further distancing themselves from the relegation battle.
Frustration for the Reds at Anfield
For Liverpool, the result represents a significant setback in their Premier League campaign. A lacklustre and predictable performance in the final third left the home supporters frustrated, as chance after chance was snuffed out by Leeds' committed rearguard action. The point does little to bolster their title ambitions, highlighting issues to be addressed by Slot in the January transfer window.
The final whistle confirmed a hard-earned and valuable point for Leeds United at Anfield, while Liverpool were left to rue a poor home display that saw two precious points slip away.
