Isak scored but got injured, Liverpool narrowly won in the Premier League

21/12/2025 07:18:00 esportapi

Liverpool managed a hard-earned 2-1 win over Tottenham in the 17th round of the 2025/26 Premier League, but the visitors’ celebration was marred as striker Alexander Isak got injured soon after scoring the opener. The match at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium was intense and dramatic, featuring two red cards for the hosts.

Although playing at home, Tottenham unexpectedly chose a defensive counter-attacking approach, ceding ball possession to Liverpool. The first half was played at a moderate tempo, with both sides cautious. Notable chances were rare and mainly came from set pieces or individual mistakes.

The game’s turning point came at the 30th minute when Xavi Simons committed a foul from behind on Virgil van Dijk. After VAR consultation, the referee showed a straight red card, reducing Tottenham to ten men. Even so, Liverpool struggled to convert their numerical advantage into goals, managing only one genuinely dangerous shot in the first half.

In the second half, coach Arne Slot strengthened the attack by introducing Alexander Isak. This change quickly bore fruit. In the 56th minute, following a swift counterattack caused by a Tottenham defensive error, Florian Wirtz provided a perfect assist for Isak to score, giving Liverpool the lead. This goal was crucial for the Swedish striker, who had yet to reach peak form this season.

However, just minutes after scoring, Isak suffered a physical issue in a fierce collision and had to be substituted amid Liverpool’s staff concerns. The image of the costly striker limping off made Liverpool’s victory feel less complete.

Liverpool then extended their lead in the 66th minute when Jeremie Frimpong crossed to Hugo Ekitike, who leapt to head the ball into Tottenham’s net. The home side strongly protested, alleging Ekitike had fouled earlier, but the goal was allowed.

Leading 2-0, Liverpool slowed the pace and gave Tottenham more control. This relaxation proved costly as Richarlison scored in the 83rd minute to reduce the deficit, heightening the match’s intensity. Tottenham’s hopes ended when Cristian Romero received a second red card for an off-the-ball foul on Ibrahima Konate.

In the end, Liverpool claimed a 2-1 victory to climb to fifth place in the league table, staying close to the Champions League spots. Nonetheless, injuries to Isak and Frimpong mean Arne Slot’s side paid a heavy price for this tough win.