Liverpool cemented their spot at the top of the Premier League table with a determined 2-0 victory over Aston Villa at Anfield.
Goals from Darwin Nunez and Mohamed Salah, combined with Manchester City’s surprising 2-1 defeat to Brighton, allowed Liverpool to open a five-point lead over their closest rivals.
The Anfield crowd was energized by news of City’s earlier loss, spurring Liverpool on from the kickoff.
Despite Villa’s early attempts to counter-attack, Liverpool’s defense held strong, with Ryan Gravenberch making a crucial block to deny Jacob Ramsey and Villa missing a close header opportunity.
However, Liverpool soon took control, taking advantage of Villa’s vulnerability on set-pieces to push forward.
The breakthrough came when a long clearance from Virgil van Dijk found Darwin Nunez in space.
The Uruguayan striker capitalized on the opportunity, slotting in his third goal of the season and putting Liverpool ahead.
Villa’s troubles continued as they struggled to keep up with Liverpool’s pace and were almost punished again after a similar counter-attack, but Nunez failed to convert.
Liverpool’s defense remained resilient even after losing Trent Alexander-Arnold to injury in the first half, potentially sidelining him for England duty.
Caoimhin Kelleher stepped up, producing key saves to keep Villa scoreless. In the second half, Morgan Rogers missed a crucial chance to equalize for Villa, slicing his shot wide from close range.
As Villa pressed for an equalizer, Liverpool maintained their composure.
In the 84th minute, Salah pounced on a deflected header from Diego Carlos, racing through on goal to chip past Villa’s keeper Emi Martinez, securing his 10th goal of the season and a comfortable victory for Liverpool.
This win marks Liverpool’s 15th triumph in 17 games under new manager Arne Slot, putting them in a commanding position in the title race.
With Arsenal trailing by ten points and facing a tough match against Chelsea, Liverpool looks set to build on their lead, especially with a crucial home fixture against Manchester City on December 1 after the international break.
