Liverpool secured a vital 2-0 victory over Bournemouth at the Vitality Stadium, extending their lead at the top of the English Premier League to nine points.
Mohamed Salah was the hero once again, scoring both goals to take his tally to 22 this season.
The win, however, did not come easy. Bournemouth, who were unbeaten in 11 league games, put up a strong fight. The home side had big chances but could not convert them. In the end, Salah’s clinical finishing made the difference.
Salah Strikes Again
The breakthrough came in the 30th minute when Cody Gakpo was fouled inside the penalty area by Lewis Cook. After a VAR check, the referee pointed to the spot. Salah stepped up and smashed his shot past the Bournemouth keeper, putting Liverpool ahead.
Bournemouth responded with intensity. Antoine Semenyo rattled the post, and Marcus Tavernier came close to equalizing. But the Reds’ defense, led by Virgil van Dijk, held firm.
In the 75th minute, Salah struck again. A quick counter-attack saw him cut inside before curling a stunning shot into the top corner. It was his 178th Premier League goal, moving him above Frank Lampard in the all-time goal rankings.
A Tough Battle for Liverpool
Liverpool were lucky at times. Bournemouth had big chances, but Alisson made some brilliant saves. Justin Kluivert missed a sitter, failing to convert a rebound after Tavernier hit the post.
Despite the pressure, Arne Slot’s men managed the game well. They extended their unbeaten Premier League run to 20 matches and tightened their grip on the title race.
Injury Concern for Liverpool
The only negative for Liverpool was Trent Alexander-Arnold limping off in the second half. He is now a doubt for the Carabao Cup semi-final against Tottenham.
Manager Arne Slot was concerned, saying, “He asked to come off, which is never a good sign. We will have to wait for tests.”
Bournemouth’s Fight Not Enough
Bournemouth have been impressive this season. They had already beaten Arsenal, Manchester City, and Nottingham Forest at home. They fought bravely against Liverpool, but it was not their night.
They remain in seventh place and are still in contention for European football. If they maintain their form, they could secure a historic finish in the league.
Liverpool’s Title Charge Continues
Liverpool now have 56 points from 23 matches. Arsenal and Nottingham Forest trail behind with 47, but Arsenal have a chance to close the gap when they face Manchester City.
Salah’s brilliance continues to drive Liverpool forward. He has now scored 20+ goals in five Premier League seasons, a feat only Alan Shearer, Sergio Aguero, and Harry Kane have surpassed.
With the league title in sight, Liverpool will now turn their focus to their next big test: the initially postponed Merseyside derby against Everton on Wednesday 12th February 2025.
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