Liverpool lacked the firepower to break down a much-changed Leeds in a 0-0 draw at Anfield that wasted a chance to solidify its place in the Premier League top four.
Arne Slot’s men are now nine games unbeaten, but were made to pay for the latest in a series of lacklustre performances in that run as Leeds comfortably held out to pull seven points clear of the relegation zone.
The visitor came closest to winning the game as Dominic Calvert-Lewin fired in late on, but was flagged offside.
A point edges Liverpool three points clear of Chelsea and Manchester United in the battle for a place in next season’s Champions League.
Leeds boss Daniel Farke had one eye on his side’s clash with fierce rival Manchester United on Saturday as he left the in-form Calvert-Lewin on the bench among four changes.
AS IT HAPPENED: LIV VS LEE HIGHLIGHTS
Liverpool was without Mohamed Salah due to his participation in the Africa Cup of Nations and the injured Alexander Isak.
The absence of the two top scorers in the Premier League last season was felt as the Reds rarely threatened to break the deadlock.
Hugo Ekitike wasted Liverpool’s best chance when he completely miscued his header from Jeremie Frimpong’s driven cross with the goal gaping midway through the first half.
Leeds’ six-game unbeaten run that has hauled it clear of the relegation zone has included two meetings with the Premier League champion.
In stark contrast to the 3-3 thriller between the sides just over three weeks ago, this time the defensive organisation of Daniel Farke’s men frustrated the Reds.
The visitor was inches away from taking all three points as Calvert-Lewin almost continued his goalscoring streak.
The former Everton striker had scored in his six previous games and poked past Alisson Becker 10 minutes from time, but had strayed marginally offside to be denied his first goal at Anfield.
“A good battle and they’re a great side,” Leeds defender James Justin told Sky Sports. “They’ve not been their best this season, but you know what quality they have.
“Today, we did a good job collectively, so a pat on the back for us. There was a lot of emphasis going on a few days before the game, trying out different shapes with different players. Luckily, today, we chose the right tactic.”
Published on Jan 02, 2026
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