Explore how Clinical Salah’s performance propelled Liverpool to a crucial win, further extending their title lead. Read the full match analysis and insights.
Introduction:
Going nine points clear at the top of the Premier League table, Liverpool earned all three points with a hard-won 2-0 victory over AFC Bournemouth, thanks to a brace from Mohamed Salah. The Egyptian forward converted a first-half penalty as well as adding a stunning curling finish in the second half.
A Tough Battle at the Vitality Stadium
Bournemouth had 11 league matches without a single loss, with Liverpool having experienced 18 such games without facing defeat. From the hosts, it was apparent that the encounter would be the most challenging affair, and they did not deny that.
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The Cherries started on fire, with Antoine Semenyo testing Alisson within the first 12 seconds and later rattling the near post with a fierce left-footed strike. High-energy Bournemouth proved to be a problem for Liverpool early on, but the visitors came out firm.
Clinical Salah’s Ice-Cold Penalty Puts Liverpool Ahead
In the 30th minute, Liverpool took the lead when Cody Gakpo was tripped in the box by Lewis Cook. A VAR review confirmed the foul and also checked for a possible offside before awarding the penalty. Salah stepped up and calmly slotted the ball into the bottom-right corner, leaving Bournemouth goalkeeper Neto with no chance.
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Although they fell behind, Bournemouth didn’t drop their attacking intent at all. David Brooks thought he had equalized with a well taken finish, but that was chalked off by a check for offside against Milos Kerkez after a third VAR review.
Missed Chances Cost Bournemouth
In the second half of play, Bournemouth were pushing on the same, but a Semenyo close-range attempt from the rebound forced a close-range save by Alisson. However, the Cherries’ best opportunity to take a lead was at the 70th minute when Marcus Tavernier struck the post from distance. A powerful attempt was struck wide and, when it fell back, to the open goal mouth was Justin Kluivert, who for reasons best known to him managed to skew it wide and spurn a real scoring chance.
Salah Punishes Bournemouth with a Stunning Strike
Moments after Kluivert’s miss, Salah sealed the victory for Liverpool with a moment of brilliance. Cutting in from the right, he bent a beautiful shot into the far corner, marking his 25th goal of the season in all competitions.
His double also took him to 21 Premier League goals this season, making him only the fourth player in league history to surpass 20 goals in five different seasons. Only Alan Shearer seven, Sergio Aguero six, and Harry Kane six have achieved this more than him.
Bournemouth’s Fight Ends in Defeat
Despite losing, Bournemouth showed why they have been one of the league’s most improved teams this season under Andoni Iraola. They had earned more points from their previous 11 matches than any other team and had already beaten Arsenal and Manchester City at home. Fine margins, though, decided this game: Liverpool took their chances, and Bournemouth could not.
With matches against Southampton and Wolverhampton Wanderers coming up, the Cherries will be looking to bounce back quickly and continue their push for European qualification.
Liverpool Marching Towards the Title
Liverpool manager Arne Slot made several changes for their midweek UEFA Champions League match against PSV, resting key players such as Salah, Trent Alexander-Arnold, and Virgil van Dijk. The decision paid off, as Liverpool’s fresher legs helped them withstand Bournemouth’s energetic press.
While they did not dominate proceedings, the Reds showed the resilience and clinical edge of a title-winning side. Winning without playing their best is often the hallmark of champions, and with Salah in electric form, Liverpool look well-positioned to go all the way.
Their next big challenge comes in 11 days when they face Everton in the rescheduled Merseyside derby. If they can maintain their momentum, they could further extend their lead and tighten their grip on the Premier League trophy.