Liverpool's title defense suffered a setback with a 0-0 draw against Leeds United on New Year's Day at Anfield. The reigning champions dominated possession but lacked creativity against a resolute Leeds defense. Arne Slot admitted his side struggled to break down the visitors' low block.
Liverpool hosted Leeds United in their first Premier League match of 2026, aiming to extend a five-match winning run across all competitions. The game, a rematch of the thrilling 3-3 draw at Elland Road on December 6, proved far less entertaining, ending in a goalless stalemate at Anfield.
The Reds, managed by Arne Slot, controlled the ball but found it difficult to penetrate Leeds' compact defense. Hugo Ekitike squandered the best chance, heading Jeremie Frimpong's cross wide from close range in the first half. Virgil van Dijk also missed narrowly from a set-piece delivery by Dominik Szoboszlai with 20 minutes left. In the closing stages, Leeds' Dominic Calvert-Lewin thought he had won it nine minutes from time, but an offside flag disallowed his effort.
Slot reflected post-match: “You would like to start the year with a win but it was difficult. I don’t think we were able to play many times through their low block. When we did we didn’t have enough bodies in front of goal and other times we were unfortunate.” He highlighted the need for pace or set-pieces to unlock such defenses, noting close calls with Frimpong's one-on-ones and van Dijk's header. Injuries hampered Liverpool: Mohamed Salah was at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, Alexander Isak suffered a broken leg, and Wataru Endo was sidelined. The bench featured four players aged 19 or younger.
Leeds, under Daniel Farke, extended their unbeaten run to six matches and moved seven points clear of relegation after 19 games. They had drawn 1-1 at Sunderland prior, with Calvert-Lewin in fine form, scoring seven in his last six outings.
Liverpool remain fourth with 33 points from 19 games, three points above Chelsea and six behind leaders Aston Villa. Their next fixtures are away to Fulham on Sunday and Arsenal on Thursday. Leeds host Manchester United on Sunday before traveling to Newcastle.
