Match Report: Liverpool 0-0 Leeds United
Liverpool began 2026 with a Premier League draw that felt faintly frustrating, a 0-0 with Leeds United at Anfield that became the first goalless Liverpool match of Arne Slot’s reign. Slot, who won the Premier League title in his first season in 2024/25, will accept the point, he will not love the lack of threat.
Ekitike miss sets tone at Anfield
The defining moment arrived in the first half. Jeremie Frimpong drilled a left footed effort with real pace, it landed perfectly for Hugo Ekitike from a yard out, and somehow he headed it in the opposite direction. With the goal gaping, it was harder to miss than score, and Liverpool never found the bite you expect at home.
Liverpool control without incision
Liverpool had the ball, plenty of it, yet possession alone did not move Leeds United. Lucas Perri was rarely tested because most attacks ended with a harmless cross, a blocked shot, or a pass that arrived a beat too late. Virgil van Dijk came close when he headed wide from a second half corner, and there was a first half penalty shout when Ekitike appeared to be held by Jaka Bijol, but neither incident changed the mood.
It underlined a recurring issue when opponents sit deep and stay organised. Liverpool can circulate the ball well, they can pin teams back, but without sharper movement between the lines, the final pass becomes a hope rather than a plan.
Leeds United resilience and Calvert Lewin offside twist
Daniel Farke set up for control and concentration, with one eye on Manchester United at Elland Road on Sunday. He even rested Dominic Calvert Lewin at kick off despite seven goals in his previous six matches. When Calvert Lewin came on, he nearly stole it. In the 81st minute he turned smartly and finished past Alisson, only for the flag to rule it out, marginally offside.
Leeds were disciplined throughout, they tracked runners, competed for second balls, and looked comfortable defending their box for long spells.
Premier League table impact for Liverpool and Leeds United
The draw extended Liverpool’s unbeaten run to eight Premier League matches and kept them three points ahead of Chelsea in fifth, yet it was another subdued display. For Leeds United, it was a valuable step away from trouble. Their unbeaten streak reached six, they have not lost since November, and the point leaves them seven points clear of the relegation zone.
After a 3-3 at Elland Road in December, Leeds have taken four points off the Premier League champions this season. Liverpool remain well placed, but evenings like this remind you that control needs cutting edge.
