Liverpool maintained their perfect Premier League start in dramatic fashion, with Mohamed Salah scoring a stoppage-time penalty to secure a narrow 1-0 win over Burnley at Anfield. The result keeps Arne Slot’s side at the top of the table as the only club with a 100% record this season.
It was a hard-fought victory against a resolute Burnley side who defended deep and almost escaped with a point. But once again, Liverpool found a way to win late, thanks to a moment of madness from Hannibal Mejbri and Salah’s composure from the spot.
Liverpool Dominate Possession But Struggle in Final Third
Despite having the majority of possession, Liverpool were frustrated for most of the match by Burnley’s low defensive block. The visitors played with 10 men behind the ball, leaving little room for creativity in the final third. Arne Slot’s champions lacked their usual attacking fluency, with missed passes and blocked shots stalling most attacks.
Speaking to Sky Sports post-match, Slot admitted his team had difficulty breaking down Burnley’s stubborn defense.
“It wasn’t a game where we created a lot of chances, which is hard when you’re playing with 11 players in their 18-yard box,” Slot said. “We wore them down, kept moving the ball around, and eventually the pressure told.”
Despite the lack of clear-cut chances, Liverpool remained patient. Slot introduced more attacking players late in the game, including Jeremie Frimpong, who had a golden opportunity before the decisive moment arrived.
Liverpool Win Late After Hannibal’s Handball
The breakthrough came deep into stoppage time after Burnley were reduced to 10 men when Lesley Ugochukwu received a second yellow card. As Liverpool pushed for a winner, a cross into the box struck Hannibal Mejbri’s raised arm—a clear handball under current rules.
Referee Michael Oliver pointed to the spot immediately, and even with Burnley protests, VAR backed the on-field decision.
Former Manchester United midfielder Hannibal was slammed by pundits for the unnecessary action. Roy Keane, speaking on Sky Sports, called it “madness.”
“It’s not unlucky. It’s madness,” said Keane. “It’s cost them a point. And a point would’ve felt like a win!”
Mohamed Salah, who had not registered a single shot in the game, stepped up and fired the penalty high into the top corner—his fourth goal of the season.
Liverpool Extend Scoring Streak and Stay Top
The win means Liverpool remain the only Premier League side with a 100% record this season. More impressively, they have now scored in 38 consecutive league games, underlining their attacking consistency—even when not at their best.
Slot praised his players’ persistence and mental strength:
“We kept going until the end. That’s what top teams do. Sometimes it’s not about playing well, it’s about finding a way—and we did that.”
It’s another example of Liverpool’s ability to grind out results when things aren’t flowing, a trait that could prove crucial in their title defense.
Burnley Show Fight But Fall Short at Anfield
Burnley boss Scott Parker was full of praise for his side despite the heartbreaking defeat. His team defended with resilience and discipline, and for most of the match, executed the game plan perfectly.
“At times, we survived like our lives depended on it,” said Parker. “My players gave everything. I’m immensely proud of them.”
He acknowledged that the penalty decision was technically correct under the current laws but expressed frustration at how defenders are being forced to adapt their body positioning.
“It’s handball by the letter of the law. But it’s five yards away and struck with power—what can he do?” Parker said. “The only learning is, maybe we have to start training with arms behind our backs.”
While Burnley remain winless, their performance at Anfield offered hope. Their defensive shape, work rate, and spirit were clear, but lapses in concentration at key moments continue to cost them.
What’s Next for Liverpool?
Liverpool will now look ahead to their next fixture as they aim to maintain their unbeaten run and continue building momentum under Arne Slot. With depth in attack and a winning mentality, this team has shown it can win ugly—an essential trait in any title-winning campaign.
Slot may still have work to do in refining the final third play and bringing more cohesion in attack, but results like this are a strong foundation to build upon.
Source – Skysports
