Liverpool surged to the top of the Premier League table, at least temporarily, after a dominant 3-0 victory over Bournemouth on Saturday. This win marked a strong response following manager Arne Slot’s first defeat in charge of the Reds last weekend.
Luis Diaz was the standout performer, scoring twice within two minutes in the first half, with goals at the 26th and 28th minutes. Darwin Nunez capped off the scoring with a spectacular strike in the 37th minute during a bustling 11-minute stretch that resembled the high-octane football associated with Jurgen Klopp’s teams.
With this result, Liverpool has temporarily moved ahead of Manchester City on goal difference, putting the pressure on the reigning champions as they prepare to face Arsenal in a crucial match on Sunday.
Bournemouth made a strong start and nearly scored early, with Antoine Semenyo having a goal ruled out for offside just three minutes into the game. However, this close call seemed to be a wake-up call for Liverpool, who quickly found their rhythm. Under Slot’s guidance, the team displayed a balanced approach, combining controlled possession with quick counter-attacking play. Notably, Liverpool kept Bournemouth shackled in the second half, limiting them to a 0.23 expected goals despite the Cherries taking eight shots from open play.
In the match, Nunez’s left-footed curling shot found the back of the net, solidifying Liverpool’s lead, while Diaz’s earlier goals saw him capitalize on a mistake from Bournemouth goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga.
The final score was 3-0 in favor of Liverpool, with Diaz and Nunez both featuring prominently in the goal-scoring department.
Liverpool’s starting lineup consisted of Kelleher in goal, supported by Alexander-Arnold, Konate, Van Dijk, and Robertson in defense, while Gravenberch, Mac Allister, and Szoboszlai operated in midfield. The attacking trio included Salah, Diaz, and Nunez.
On the other side, Bournemouth started with Arrizabalaga in goal and included players like Araujo, Zabarnyi, and Huijsen in defense, along with Christie, Cook, and Kluivert in midfield.
The match kickoff took place at Anfield at 10 am ET, and fans were able to tune in via USA Network and NBC.com.
In terms of team news, Liverpool was missing Harvey Elliott due to a foot injury and had Alisson Becker listed as questionable. Bournemouth’s squad was without Tyler Adams and Dango Ouattara due to injuries.