Liverpool fought back to salvage a dramatic 2-2 draw against Fulham at Anfield, a result that showcased their resilience but also highlighted the challenges of a relentless title race. Reduced to ten men after just 17 minutes and trailing late in the match, the league leaders demonstrated remarkable determination to secure a point, though the outcome felt bittersweet given their ambitions.
The game started with high intensity, and Fulham capitalized early with a well-executed team goal. Issa Diop launched a clearance to Harry Wilson, who quickly switched play to Alex Iwobi. The midfielder released Antonee Robinson on the overlap, and the Fulham captain delivered a precise cross. Andreas Pereira met it with a stretching volley, which deflected off Andy Robertson and flew into the roof of the net, leaving Alisson with no chance.
Liverpool’s afternoon took a turn for the worse shortly after. Robertson, who had already been involved in a contentious moment when fouled by Diop earlier, was shown a straight red card for denying Wilson a clear goalscoring opportunity. A heavy first touch from the Scotland international allowed Wilson to break through, and his next action brought the Fulham forward down. After a lengthy VAR review confirmed the decision, Liverpool were left with a mountain to climb.
Despite the numerical disadvantage, Liverpool responded with tactical ingenuity. Mohamed Salah moved into a central role, Trent Alexander-Arnold pushed higher into midfield, and Ryan Gravenberch slotted into a makeshift defensive line. These adjustments helped Liverpool weather Fulham’s early dominance and gain a foothold in the game. By the end of the first half, the hosts had turned the tide and were creating chances. Luis Díaz came close to leveling but headed over from a pinpoint cross by Dominik Szoboszlai.
The second half began with Liverpool finding their equalizer almost immediately. Salah floated a perfectly weighted cross to the far post, where Cody Gakpo, unmarked, dove to head the ball past Bernd Leno. Anfield erupted, and a VAR check confirmed there was no foul in the buildup, validating the goal and igniting Liverpool’s hopes of a comeback.
Fulham, however, were not done. Regaining their composure, they struck again to take the lead. Wilson and Iwobi combined effectively to release Robinson down the flank. The full-back’s cross was met by substitute Rodrigo Muniz, who deftly flicked the ball past Alisson from close range. The goal stunned the home crowd and put Fulham in the driver’s seat once more.
Liverpool’s response was swift and decisive. Substitutes Diogo Jota and Harvey Elliott brought renewed energy and creativity, with Jota proving instrumental. After receiving a pass from Darwin Núñez, Jota twisted past Jorge Cuenca inside the box and slotted a composed finish beyond Leno to make it 2-2 in the 85th minute. The Portuguese forward’s goal underlined his importance to the team following his return from injury.
The final minutes were chaotic, with both sides pushing for a decisive goal. Liverpool’s attacking trio of Jota, Núñez, and Díaz saw several close-range efforts blocked as Fulham defended desperately. At the other end, Alisson produced a vital save to deny Adama Traoré during a dangerous counterattack. The tension and drama extended into nine minutes of added time, but neither team could find a winner.
The draw highlighted Liverpool’s fighting spirit and tactical adaptability under pressure. Despite playing with ten men for most of the game, they managed to dominate large spells and create opportunities. However, the result also marked a second consecutive league game in which they dropped points, raising questions about their consistency in a highly competitive title race.
For Fulham, it was a performance of grit and quality. They twice took the lead and posed significant problems for Liverpool, but their inability to close out the game will feel like a missed opportunity. Nevertheless, earning a point at Anfield against the league leaders was a testament to their discipline and determination.
While Liverpool may view the result as two points dropped, the character they displayed will provide encouragement for the challenges ahead. For Fulham, it was a hard-fought result that showcased their ability to compete against the best.
