Liverpool continued their march toward the Premier League title with a hard-fought victory, their celebrations reflecting the significance of the result. Arne Slot’s team navigated the challenge posed by Bournemouth, a side that had previously troubled top-four contenders like Manchester City, Arsenal, and Nottingham Forest this season.
It was Mohamed Salah who ultimately made the difference. His first goal came from a controversial penalty decision, while his second, a delicate left-footed chip, was a moment of brilliance. With this crucial win, Liverpool extended their lead at the top of the table to nine points, increasing the pressure on their nearest challengers. “My main target is to win the Premier League with the team, and we are going in the right direction,” Salah said after the match.
For Bournemouth, this match may have been one step too far. Liverpool, able to field the same XI that dominated Ipswich in their previous outing, benefited from a near fully-fit squad. Curtis Jones’ introduction in the second half injected much-needed energy and improvement at a crucial juncture. In contrast, Bournemouth’s selection was again dictated by the players available to them.
“Small things didn’t go for us,” said their manager. “We have given ourselves a chance, but it hasn’t been enough.”
Liverpool’s victory carried extra significance, given their history at the Vitality Stadium. Previous trips had resulted in unexpected setbacks, including a 4-3 defeat in 2016 and a costly loss two seasons ago when Salah missed a penalty. Bournemouth’s recent rise has been defined by their high-tempo, aggressive style, which had left several teams questioning their own defensive solidity.
Targeting Trent Alexander-Arnold’s flank was a key part of Bournemouth’s game plan, with Justin Kluivert frequently joining attacking overloads. Antoine Semenyo created a moment of danger, cutting inside and smashing the post after leaving Alexander-Arnold trailing. Liverpool’s early play was more cautious, with only a few glimpses of attacking intent Cody Gakpo forcing a save and Salah testing Kepa Arrizabalaga.
Liverpool’s breakthrough came in controversial fashion. The referee deemed Lewis Cook to have clipped Gakpo’s heels, a decision that appeared soft even on replay. VAR upheld the call, and Salah converted the penalty for his 20th Premier League goal of the season. The home crowd reacted furiously, and Bournemouth lost some of their early momentum. More frustration followed when David Brooks thought he had equalized, only for the goal to be disallowed after a delayed VAR decision ruled Milos Kerkez offside.
Bournemouth, usually so incisive in attack, began to overplay, while Liverpool’s defense, led by the composed Virgil van Dijk, stood firm. After halftime, Bournemouth launched another wave of pressure. Kluivert’s volley was beaten away, and Ryan Christie’s pass set up Semenyo for a one-on-one with Alisson, but the Brazilian goalkeeper smothered the danger. “You have to be focused and really sharp in every situation,” Alisson said. “This intensity takes a lot of energy to win these games.”
As Bournemouth pushed forward, space opened up for Liverpool to exploit. Salah missed a chance, dragging a shot wide, while Dominik Szoboszlai and Alexis Mac Allister grew into the game. An injury to Alexander-Arnold forced a reshuffle, but Liverpool absorbed the pressure. Substitute Marcus Tavernier struck the post with a long-range shot, and Kluivert missed the rebound. “Against teams like Liverpool, you need to punish them whenever you have the chance,” Bournemouth’s manager admitted.
Moments later, Salah delivered the decisive blow. “Maybe the second goal was the difference between the two teams,” Slot said afterward. With Liverpool now in control, Wataru Endo came on to close out the game, shutting down Bournemouth’s late threats and securing a vital three points.
