Liverpool's star-studded lineup failed to spark into life on Merseyside as they were held by a determined Sunderland side, with the draw serving as a rare positive for newly promoted Régis Le Bris's team.
The 94th-minute winner from goalkeeper Robin Roefs's pass was all that separated the two teams at Anfield, with Federico Chiesa's last-ditch clearance denying Sunderland a first win in over 39 years. The Reds' defense was left to rue their own carelessness, particularly with Virgil van Dijk at fault for conceding the opening goal.
Arne Slot's team had been on top for most of the first half, with Brian Brobbey impressing on his first Premier League start as he constantly engaged Ibrahima Konaté in a physical battle. Close support from Noah Sadiki and Enzo Le Fée meant Liverpool were never comfortable in their own box.
As the game wore on, however, it became clear that Liverpool were struggling to find any real rhythm or momentum. Their attacking play was characterized by moments of frustration, such as Dominik Szoboszlai's half-chance and Alexander Isak's wayward free header striking the base of a post.
Mohamed Salah, who had been left on the bench for the second game in succession, played a key role in Sunderland's response, introducing himself at the start of the second half and shifting into his usual central role. However, it was ultimately another substitute, Florian Wirtz, who sealed the win with an 81st-minute own goal from Nordi Mukiele.
For Slot, though, the draw was the minimum he deserved, acknowledging that Liverpool's players were "discovering a new league" and that his team had shown why they were above the reigning champions in the table come December. For Sunderland, however, this draw will be seen as an opportunity well missed, and a rare taste of life among the Premier League elite for now at least.
The 94th-minute winner from goalkeeper Robin Roefs's pass was all that separated the two teams at Anfield, with Federico Chiesa's last-ditch clearance denying Sunderland a first win in over 39 years. The Reds' defense was left to rue their own carelessness, particularly with Virgil van Dijk at fault for conceding the opening goal.
Arne Slot's team had been on top for most of the first half, with Brian Brobbey impressing on his first Premier League start as he constantly engaged Ibrahima Konaté in a physical battle. Close support from Noah Sadiki and Enzo Le Fée meant Liverpool were never comfortable in their own box.
As the game wore on, however, it became clear that Liverpool were struggling to find any real rhythm or momentum. Their attacking play was characterized by moments of frustration, such as Dominik Szoboszlai's half-chance and Alexander Isak's wayward free header striking the base of a post.
Mohamed Salah, who had been left on the bench for the second game in succession, played a key role in Sunderland's response, introducing himself at the start of the second half and shifting into his usual central role. However, it was ultimately another substitute, Florian Wirtz, who sealed the win with an 81st-minute own goal from Nordi Mukiele.
For Slot, though, the draw was the minimum he deserved, acknowledging that Liverpool's players were "discovering a new league" and that his team had shown why they were above the reigning champions in the table come December. For Sunderland, however, this draw will be seen as an opportunity well missed, and a rare taste of life among the Premier League elite for now at least.
, but seriously lvs how Sunderland gave it their all n almost pulled off the upset, only 2 mins from the end lol. Liverpool's defense was literally everywhere, didn't know what to do with themselves. And omg Federico Chiesa's clearance was insane! 
On a serious note tho, Arne Slot's tactics must've worked wonders for Sunderland, they looked super organized n well-coordinated out there. Fingers crossed they can keep it up an keep their place in the league 
what a moment of madness!
, and I'm lovin' the way Arne Slot set up his team for success. Brian Brobbey's performance was on point too 
. Maybe this draw isn't so bad after all for Sunderland - it shows they can hang with the big boys! 
And Liverpool, well... yeah, they're still figuring things out 
. Bring it on, Régis! You guys are lookin' like a force to be reckoned with 
.
also, what's up with Virgil van Dijk not playing well today? he usually can't be that bad... 
. And that 94th-minute winner? Mind-blowing 
. Can't wait to see how this season unfolds for both teams 
!