Leeds Stuns Liverpool with Late Equalizer in Thrilling Draw
Ao Tanaka scored a dramatic stoppage-time equalizer, allowing Leeds United to come from behind and secure a 3-3 draw against Liverpool at Elland Road.
Leeds, having been down by two goals, managed to level the score before Dominik Szoboszlai appeared to have clinched a crucial victory for Liverpool.
However, Tanaka, who came off the bench, found the net in the 96th minute, igniting wild celebrations among the Leeds supporters.
After a dismal streak of nine defeats in twelve matches, manager Arne Slot's team has now gone three games unbeaten, though they squandered an opportunity for victory on a day when Salah was once again left on the bench.
The first half ended goalless, but Liverpool took control shortly after the break when Hugo Ekitike scored two goals within three minutes.
Despite their apparent dominance, Leeds clawed their way back into the match when Ibrahima Konate fouled Wilfried Gnonto in the penalty area.
Dominic Calvert-Lewin converted the resulting penalty for Leeds, followed by Anton Stach equalizing in the 75th minute.
Though Leeds seemed poised to take the lead, Szoboszlai restored Liverpool's advantage just five minutes later.
In a thrilling conclusion, Tanaka volleyed in from the far post following a corner deep into stoppage time, securing a point for Leeds and lifting them to 16th place, three points clear of West Ham in the relegation zone.
For the third consecutive match, Slot opted to bench Mohamed Salah, with Szoboszlai starting on the right in a 4-2-3-1 formation. Liverpool enjoyed some positive moments in the first half but struggled to penetrate Leeds' defensive setup.
Players like Cody Gakpo, Florian Wirtz, and Ekitike failed to test goalkeeper Lucas Perri during the opening 45 minutes, although Curtis Jones did hit the woodwork with a curling shot from outside the box.
Slot could have turned to Salah or Alexander Isak at halftime but chose to stick with his lineup. Liverpool was gifted an early second-half opportunity when Joe Rodon misplayed a pass just three minutes after the break, allowing Ekitike to score with a deft finish.
This marked Ekitike's first Premier League goal since September 20, and he showcased his scoring instincts by adding a second goal from close range, becoming the first Liverpool player to score twice in a match this season.
Despite their early lead, Liverpool's inability to maintain control allowed Leeds back into contention. Slot's decision to bench Salah reflects the forward's recent struggles, as the 33-year-old has not started a match in three games after a streak of 53 consecutive Premier League starts. Salah is also set to leave for the Africa Cup of Nations after next weekend.
Nonetheless, with only four wins in their last 15 matches, Liverpool's challenges extend beyond the form of a single player. From a position of strength at 3-2, they should have secured the victory, but their issues persist.
Upcoming Matches
Liverpool will travel to Italy to face Inter Milan in the Champions League on Tuesday evening (20:00 GMT) before hosting Brighton at Anfield next Saturday (15:00 GMT). Meanwhile, Leeds will visit Brentford next Sunday (16:30 GMT).