Mohamed Salah’s controversial penalty set Liverpool on course for a 2-0 victory over Bournemouth, extending their Premier League lead to nine points on Saturday.
Arne Slot’s side took the lead after Salah converted a disputed penalty, awarded when Cody Gakpo appeared to trip over his own feet rather than being fouled by Lewis Cook. Despite Bournemouth’s protests, referee Darren England’s decision stood after a VAR check.
Salah compounded Bournemouth’s frustration with a late second goal, securing Liverpool’s advantage over second-placed Arsenal. The Egyptian star now boasts 21 goals in 23 league matches this season, marking the fifth time he has hit the 20-goal milestone in the English top flight.
With 178 career Premier League goals, Salah has surpassed Frank Lampard to claim sixth place in the competition’s all-time scoring charts.
Liverpool remain unbeaten in 19 league games, winning 17 of their 23 fixtures since Slot took charge, as they chase a record-equalling 20th English title—their first since 2020.
The Reds can now watch to see if Manchester City can aid their title bid when they face Arsenal on Sunday. Meanwhile, Liverpool will turn their focus to the League Cup semi-final on Thursday, looking to overturn a 1-0 first-leg deficit against Tottenham at Anfield.
Slot’s only concern was an injury to Trent Alexander-Arnold, who was forced off in the second half.
Bournemouth, who had previously defeated Manchester City and Arsenal at home this season, saw their impressive 11-match unbeaten run in the league snapped by a relentless Liverpool side.
The hosts nearly made a dream start when Antoine Semenyo forced Alisson into a sharp save just 12 seconds into the match. Bournemouth continued to threaten, with Semenyo striking the woodwork and Justin Kluivert spurning a rebound chance.
Liverpool, however, were ruthless in attack, and their breakthrough arrived in controversial fashion in the 30th minute. Cook, trailing Gakpo, appeared to make no contact before the penalty was awarded, but Salah confidently dispatched his spot-kick.
Bournemouth’s frustration deepened when David Brooks had an equaliser ruled out for offside by VAR. Despite some nervy moments for Liverpool—Alisson denying Semenyo, Alexander-Arnold escaping a VAR handball check, and Mac Allister avoiding a second yellow—Bournemouth failed to capitalise.
Salah sealed the win in the 75th minute, racing onto Curtis Jones’ pass before coolly finishing past Kepa Arrizabalaga.
Liverpool’s title charge remains on track, with the Anfield trophy cabinet in sight.
