Liverpool 0-0 Leeds United

Champions Frustrated as Resilient Visitors Hold Firm at Anfield

Goalless New Year’s Day Clash at Anfield

Liverpool 0-0 Leeds United . Liverpool began 2026 with a frustrating 0-0 draw against Leeds United at Anfield, as Arne Slot’s reigning champions failed to turn dominance into goals. Despite controlling possession and territory throughout the match, the Reds were unable to break down a disciplined Leeds defence, who earned a valuable away point in their fight for Premier League survival.

The result extends Leeds United’s unbeaten run to six league matches, while Liverpool miss the chance to strengthen their position in the race for Champions League qualification.

Match Overview: Liverpool vs Leeds United

When and Where Was the Match Played?

Date: Thursday, 1 January 2026
Venue: Anfield
Competition: Premier League
Kick-off: 17:30 GMT

More than 60,000 fans filled Anfield expecting a statement win, but were instead met with a tense and attritional contest.

First Half: Liverpool Control, Leeds Contain

Liverpool 0-0 Leeds United

Liverpool started on the front foot, enjoying close to 66% possession in the opening half. Jeremie Frimpong’s advanced role on the right provided width and penetration, while Florian Wirtz and Dominik Szoboszlai attempted to unlock Leeds’ compact midfield.

Missed Opportunities for the Hosts

The best chance of the half fell to Hugo Ekitiké, who headed wide from close range after a pinpoint Frimpong cross. Penalty appeals followed shortly after when the striker went down under pressure, but referee Chris Kavanagh waved play on.

Despite Liverpool’s pressure, Leeds’ defensive unit — led by Pascal Struijk and Jaka Bijol — remained composed and well-organised.

Tactical Approaches and Team Selections

Liverpool’s Line-Up and Strategy

Arne Slot made three changes, opting for attacking balance:

Goalkeeper: Alisson
Defence: Conor Bradley, Ibrahima Konaté, Virgil van Dijk, Andy Robertson
Midfield: Ryan Gravenberch, Curtis Jones
Attack: Jeremie Frimpong, Dominik Szoboszlai, Florian Wirtz
Striker: Hugo Ekitiké

Liverpool focused on sustained pressure and wide overloads but struggled with precision in the final third.

Leeds United’s Defensive Setup

Daniel Farke set his side up with discipline and patience:

Goalkeeper: Matteo Perri
Defence: James Justin, Pascal Struijk, Jaka Bijol, Sebastiaan Bornauw
Midfield: Ilia Gruev, Ethan Ampadu, Anton Stach
Attack: Albert Guðmundsson, Brenden Aaronson, Lukas Nmecha

Leeds adopted a low defensive block, prioritising shape, compactness, and counter-attacking opportunities.

Second Half: Pressure Without Reward

Liverpool 0-0 Leeds United

Substitutions and Sustained Pressure

Slot turned to his bench in search of inspiration, introducing Cody Gakpo, Alexis Mac Allister, Federico Chiesa, and teenager Rio Ngumoha. Liverpool continued to press, with Virgil van Dijk narrowly missing from a corner.

However, Leeds absorbed the pressure calmly, clearing crosses and closing space effectively.

Leeds’ Late Warning

In the 81st minute, Leeds nearly snatched a shock winner when substitute Dominic Calvert-Lewin lobbed Alisson, only for the offside flag to intervene. The moment briefly silenced Anfield and underlined Leeds’ threat on the break.

Key Match Statistics

Possession: Liverpool 65% – Leeds 35%
Shots: Liverpool 18 – Leeds 5
Expected Goals (xG): Liverpool ~1.55 – Leeds minimal
Clean Sheet: Leeds’ first since August

Player Ratings Highlights

Liverpool

Jeremie Frimpong – 7: Constant outlet and creative spark
Virgil van Dijk – 6: Solid defensively, aerial threat
Hugo Ekitiké – 6: Good movement but costly miss

Leeds United

Jaka Bijol – 8: Defensive leader and standout performer
Pascal Struijk – 8: Calm, dominant, and reliable
James Justin – 8: Impressive display on just his second league start

What the Result Means

This draw leaves Liverpool fourth on 33 points, still well placed but frustrated by missed opportunities to gain ground. For Leeds United, the point lifts them to 21 points, moving them seven clear of the relegation zone and reinforcing belief in their survival campaign.

Looking Ahead

Liverpool travel to Fulham on 4 January
Leeds United host Manchester United in a high-stakes Yorkshire derby

For Slot’s Liverpool, the match serves as a reminder that possession alone is not enough. For Leeds, it is further proof that organisation and resilience can yield results at the highest level.

Final Verdict

The 0-0 draw at Anfield encapsulated the Premier League’s unpredictability. Liverpool dominated but lacked incision, while Leeds executed their game plan to perfection. As 2026 begins, this stalemate represents frustration for the champions and a significant moral victory for the promoted side.