End of the Winning Streak and Leeds’ Defensive Resilience

On a night when attacking efficiency was absent and defensive stubbornness prevailed, Liverpool fell into the trap of a goalless draw against the resilient Leeds United. The match took place on Thursday evening, January 1, 2026, at Anfield, as part of the 19th round of the English Premier League.

Liverpool entered the match with their sights set on continuing their "winning train," seeking a fourth consecutive victory following an impressive streak that saw them defeat Brighton, Tottenham, and Wolverhampton.

However, the Reds faced a well-organized defensive setup from Leeds United, who knew how to absorb the crowd’s enthusiasm and close the spaces in front of the home side’s attacking trio.

Despite Liverpool dominating possession for much of the match and intensifying pressure in the final minutes, Leeds’ goalkeeper and defense were in top form, preventing Mohamed Salah and his teammates from finding the net. The referee’s final whistle confirmed Liverpool’s first stumble after three rounds of brilliance.

League Table and Upcoming Fixture

With this draw, Liverpool dropped two crucial points in the battle for the top four, bringing their total to 33 points, firmly in fourth place in the Premier League standings.

Meanwhile, Leeds United earned a valuable point at Anfield, moving up to 21 points and 16th place, a significant step toward escaping the relegation zone.

The Premier League table has become even more intense in the 19th round, with Arsenal continuing to dominate as winter champions, closely pursued by Manchester City, who are ready to exploit any slip-up by the Gunners. While the top two pull ahead, Liverpool finds itself in a "bone-breaking" fight for third and fourth place with teams like Aston Villa and Tottenham. Dropping points against mid-table teams like Leeds could threaten the Reds’ ambitions to secure a spot in next season’s UEFA Champions League, especially with the tight points gap making every match in the second half of the season a "final" with no room for error.

Liverpool will have little time to recalibrate, as they are set to face Fulham away next Sunday in the 20th round. This match will be a true test of the team’s ability to quickly return to the winning path before the second half of the season intensifies.