Liverpool were held to a frustrating 0-0 draw by Fulham at Anfield on Saturday, as the Reds struggled to turn their possession and attacking talent into goals.
The result leaves Liverpool with a disappointing home draw after a performance that lacked the intensity and attacking sharpness they showed in their midweek Champions League victory over Atlético Madrid. Fulham, meanwhile, produced a disciplined display to claim a valuable point.
Liverpool started slowly and found it difficult to break through a well-organised Fulham defence. Alexander Isak came close early on after Bradley Barcola played a measured pass behind the visitors’ defence, but the Liverpool forward could not find the far corner from a tight angle.
Victor Muñoz then went even closer when he met Dominik Szoboszlai’s corner with a glancing header. Fulham goalkeeper Bernd Leno reacted quickly to keep the effort from finding the net.
Fulham looked increasingly confident as the first half progressed and created opportunities of their own. Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson was involved in a dangerous moment after giving the ball away under pressure, allowing Fulham to launch an attack.
Josh King was involved in the move before Gonzalo García found himself with an opportunity, but Jérémy Jacquet produced an important block to prevent Fulham from taking the lead.
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Oscar Bobb also had a promising opening after receiving a precise delivery from Alex Iwobi, but he could not control the ball cleanly enough to seriously test Alisson. Antonee Robinson later headed wide as Fulham continued to threaten before half-time.
Liverpool improved after the break and manager Andoni Iraola introduced Milos Kerkez, Cody Gakpo and Alexis Mac Allister in an attempt to increase the pressure on Fulham.
The changes gave Liverpool more energy, but the hosts still struggled to create clear-cut opportunities. Fulham’s defensive organisation remained strong, with Calvin Bassey particularly effective in limiting Isak’s influence.
Fulham also remained dangerous on the counter-attack. King forced Alisson into a save after cutting inside and attempting to find the top corner, while Rodrigo Muniz and Kevin also had opportunities as the visitors looked capable of snatching all three points.
Liverpool pushed forward during the closing stages in search of a winner. Isak had a late opportunity from a Szoboszlai corner but flicked his effort wide of the far post.
Jeremie Frimpong then broke down the right and delivered a dangerous cross into the Fulham area, but Liverpool were unable to turn the opportunity into a decisive finish.
The final whistle confirmed a 0-0 draw, giving Fulham a valuable point and leaving Liverpool frustrated after another difficult league performance.
The result represents Liverpool’s third league draw in four matches under Iraola, while Fulham earn their first Premier League point of Álvaro Arbeloa’s tenure.
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