Match Report: Liverpool 2-2 Fulham

Liverpool fc

Diogo Jota rescues point for 10-man Liverpool

Liverpool displayed remarkable resilience and character to salvage a point in a thrilling 2-2 draw against Fulham at Anfield on Saturday afternoon. Reduced to 10 men early in the game after Andy Robertson’s red card, the Reds fought back twice, with substitute Diogo Jota marking his return from injury by scoring a late equalizer. Despite their numerical disadvantage, Liverpool’s determination and attacking intent ensured they avoided defeat in what proved to be a gripping contest.

Key Moments in the Match

First Half

The match began in scrappy fashion, with both sides struggling to establish rhythm amidst early fouls and bookings. Fulham, however, struck the first significant blow in the 11th minute. A counter-attack saw Antonee Robinson deliver a deep cross to the back post, where Andreas Pereira acrobatically stretched to convert past Alisson Becker. The goal, deflected off Andy Robertson, gave the visitors a surprising early lead.

Liverpool’s situation worsened six minutes later when Robertson was sent off for a last-man foul on Harry Wilson. The Scottish defender miscontrolled a ball in behind, allowing Wilson to pounce and race through on goal. Robertson’s desperate recovery challenge brought Wilson down, leaving referee Simon Hooper no choice but to brandish a red card. A lengthy VAR check confirmed the decision, ruling it as a clear denial of a goal-scoring opportunity. With over 70 minutes left to play, Liverpool were forced to adjust tactically and mentally.

Fulham, buoyed by their advantage, continued to threaten on the counter. Joe Gomez’s crucial block denied Wilson from close range just after the half-hour mark, and Fulham looked dangerous in transition. Liverpool, however, nearly equalized before halftime. Dominik Szoboszlai’s floated cross found Luis Diaz six yards out, but the Colombian’s header sailed narrowly over the crossbar, ensuring Fulham held a 1-0 lead at the break.

Second Half

Liverpool emerged from the interval with renewed energy and purpose, and it didn’t take long for them to level the score. Just two minutes into the second half, Cody Gakpo displayed his poacher’s instincts by diving to head in a perfectly weighted cross from Mohamed Salah. The equalizer sparked the Anfield crowd into life and gave the Reds much-needed momentum despite their numerical disadvantage.

With confidence flowing, Liverpool pressed for a second goal. Gakpo forced Bernd Leno into a low save soon after, while Gomez and Salah both tested the Fulham goalkeeper with efforts from outside the box. Fulham, however, remained a constant threat on the counter. Harry Wilson came close to restoring the visitors’ lead, narrowly missing the target after being played through.

Liverpool almost punished Fulham’s missed opportunities. A swift counterattack in the 65th minute saw Salah narrowly steer his effort wide of the near post following an intelligent layoff from Szoboszlai. Moments later, Salah’s shot on the turn from a Diaz cross whistled past the upright, leaving Anfield on edge.

Liverpool vs Fulham

Despite Liverpool’s pressure, it was Fulham who struck next. In the 76th minute, Rodrigo Muniz capitalized on a well-worked move down the left. Robinson’s cut-back found Muniz in space, and the Brazilian calmly slotted home from close range to restore Fulham’s advantage. The goal stunned the home crowd and left Liverpool with an uphill battle.

However, the Reds refused to give up. Their persistence was rewarded in the 87th minute when Diogo Jota marked his long-awaited return to action with a crucial equalizer. Darwin Núñez, introduced earlier as a substitute, played a clever pass to Jota on the edge of the area. The Portuguese forward displayed composure and skill, side-stepping Jorge Cuenca before slotting a low finish beyond Leno. It was a moment of pure relief for Liverpool and a testament to Jota’s quality.

The drama didn’t end there. Nine minutes of added time gave Liverpool hope of completing an unlikely comeback. Luis Diaz came agonizingly close, with his deflected effort narrowly missing the target after a chaotic scramble inside the Fulham box. At the other end, Alisson Becker had to be alert to deny Adama Traore’s powerful drive, ensuring Liverpool held on for a hard-fought point.

Key Performances

• Cody Gakpo: The Dutchman showcased his predatory instincts with a crucial header early in the second half and worked tirelessly throughout the game.
• Diogo Jota: Making his first appearance since October 20, Jota provided the decisive moment with his late equalizer. His return is a huge boost for Liverpool’s attacking options.
• Joe Gomez: Stepping in after Robertson’s dismissal, Gomez was solid defensively and even ventured forward to contribute in attack.
• Alisson Becker: The Brazilian goalkeeper made a vital save late on to deny Traore and preserve Liverpool’s point.

Team News

Liverpool made one change from their midweek Champions League victory, with Cody Gakpo starting ahead of Darwin Núñez. Federico Chiesa and Diogo Jota returned to the squad after recovering from injuries, both being named among the substitutes. The game also saw Trent Alexander-Arnold and Szoboszlai make way late on for fresh legs.

Starting XI:
Alisson; Gomez, Van Dijk, Diaz, Szoboszlai (Elliott 79′), Salah, Jones (Quansah 70′), Gakpo (Núñez 70′), Robertson, Gravenberch, Alexander-Arnold (Jota 79′).
Unused substitutes: Kelleher, Endo, Chiesa, Morton, Nyoni.

Attendance

Anfield welcomed a crowd of 60,333 for the thrilling encounter.

Final Thoughts

Liverpool’s performance highlighted both their vulnerabilities and their fighting spirit. Playing over 70 minutes with 10 men, the Reds showed immense character to twice come from behind and rescue a point. While the defensive lapses and Robertson’s dismissal will be concerns for Jürgen Klopp, the resilience and determination displayed will serve as positives. Diogo Jota’s impactful return, combined with the team’s collective effort, will provide encouragement as Liverpool look to build consistency in their pursuit of a strong Premier League finish.

The result leaves Liverpool needing to address their defensive frailties but also emphasizes their attacking depth and grit in difficult situations. With key players returning from injury, the Reds remain a formidable force as they push forward in both domestic and European competitions.

🔴Find the Latest News on Player Ratings | Transfers | Prematch | Postmatch

Thank you for your continued support, and let’s cheer Liverpool on to success in the upcoming match. Your thoughts are always welcome in the comments section. For further insights, you may explore the official Liverpool FC website by clicking here.

YNWA (You’ll Never Walk Alone)!
The Liverpool FC Times Team
LiverpoolFCTimes.com