“Not even a chance” – Arne Slot reacts to Liverpool’s 1-1 draw with Sunderland

Slot reflects on Liverpool’s 1-1 draw with Sunderland after late drama at Anfield

Liverpool were forced to settle for a single point after a tense Premier League contest with Sunderland ended level at Anfield. A deflected strike from Chemsdine Talbi handed the visitors a second-half lead, before Florian Wirtz’s effort – also diverted en route – restored parity late on. Despite heavy pressure in the closing stages, the breakthrough Liverpool craved never arrived.

Below is an in-depth breakdown of Arne Slot’s post-match reflections as his side continue searching for fluency in front of goal.

Photo: IMAGO

Slot highlights Chiesa’s decisive late recovery run

The Liverpool head coach began by underlining the significance of Federico Chiesa’s dramatic stoppage-time intervention, which prevented what would have been a stunning Sunderland winner. As Liverpool pushed for a decisive goal, a set-piece delivery left them exposed, allowing a Sunderland runner a free run beyond the halfway line.

Slot praised Chiesa’s refusal to switch off, noting his relentless sprint to cover the danger. With Alisson Becker steering the attacker wide, Chiesa arrived just in time to clear off the line.

For Slot, the moment reflected both the squad’s determination and the minimum reward Liverpool merited. While frustrated not to convert their late pressure into victory, the manager insisted the draw aligned with the balance of the game.

Slot: “Not even a chance”

Slot admitted his post-match feelings sat somewhere between encouragement and disappointment. Liverpool anticipated a difficult challenge given Sunderland’s impressive defensive record this season, and the match followed that pattern.

While Liverpool generated more pressure than clear chances, they conceded few opportunities themselves. Sunderland’s opener came via a heavy deflection following an effort from distance – a moment Slot regarded as more misfortune than defensive frailty.

Wirtz’s equaliser, which also took a touch before nestling in the net, offered some justice in Slot’s view. Yet Liverpool’s struggle to find decisive openings remains a theme, with the head coach acknowledging the need for more incisive moments in tight fixtures.

Sunderland’s approach and Anfield’s atmosphere addressed

Asked whether Sunderland grew in belief after scoring, Slot pushed back. He argued that Liverpool dominated the second half territorially, with the visitors threatening only through long balls and set-pieces. With Sunderland proving dangerous from dead-ball situations throughout the season, Liverpool’s resilience in defending these moments was one of the night’s positives.

On the broader question surrounding Anfield’s so-called diminished fear factor, Slot was clear: the stadium remains imposing. However, he accepted that the team’s mixed early-season results have encouraged opponents to test themselves against Liverpool rather than approach with caution.

Tactical reasoning behind Salah’s early introduction

The decision to introduce Mohamed Salah at half-time drew understandable focus. Slot explained that Cody Gakpo found it difficult to create moments of individual brilliance or deliver telling crosses against Sunderland’s compact defensive shape. With Liverpool needing greater inspiration in wide areas, Salah entered on the right while Wirtz shifted to the left.

The adjustment was aimed at boosting creativity without compromising defensive structure. Although Liverpool generated several promising set-pieces – including an Alexis Mac Allister effort against the post – the finishing touch remained elusive.