Liverpool's ambitions of securing a Premier League top-four finish suffered a severe setback on Sunday, as a stunning stoppage-time strike from Fulham's Harrison Reed snatched a dramatic 2-2 draw at Craven Cottage.
Late Drama Denies Reds Victory
The match, played on Sunday 4 January 2026, appeared to be heading for a crucial away win for the champions after substitute Cody Gakpo bundled the ball over the line in the fourth minute of added time. However, in a breathtaking twist, Fulham substitute Harrison Reed unleashed an unstoppable 30-yard effort that flew into the top corner in the seventh minute of stoppage time, sending the home fans into raptures.
This late collapse followed another largely unconvincing attacking performance from Arne Slot's side, just days after a dour goalless draw with Leeds. The result leaves Liverpool's Champions League qualification hopes in a precarious position.
Fulham Strike First Before Liverpool Fightback
Fulham took the lead after 17 minutes through former Liverpool academy player Harry Wilson. A clever flick from Raul Jimenez sent Wilson clear, and his precise finish beat Alisson. After a lengthy VAR check, the goal was awarded, with Virgil van Dijk deemed to have played Wilson onside by the narrowest of margins.
The first half was characterised by Liverpool's sterile possession, failing to register a single shot on target. The pattern changed after the interval, and the equaliser arrived just before the hour mark. A superb, mazy run from Conor Bradley set up Florian Wirtz, who finished expertly after another tight VAR call confirmed he was just onside.
Alisson Error Almost Proves Costly
Liverpool's defensive frailties were nearly exposed again with 13 minutes remaining. Goalkeeper Alisson raced out to save from Jimenez but spilled the ball, leaving the goal gaping. Wilson's follow-up struck the crossbar, and Van Dijk hacked the rebound clear, granting the visitors a huge let-off.
That reprieve seemed to have paved the way for victory when Gakpo scored from close range late on. Yet, the final word went to Reed, whose spectacular intervention earned Fulham a fully deserved point and left Liverpool reeling from a significant blow in the race for fourth place.
