Liverpool were held to a frustrating 0-0 draw by Fulham at Anfield on Saturday, extending manager Andoni Iraola’s wait for a first home victory. The result saw Liverpool, boasting the most expensive squad in world football at over a billion pounds, fail to find a way past a Fulham side that began the day winless and without a point.
Many supporters departed before the final whistle, reflecting the disappointing performance from the home side. The match was a stark contrast to Liverpool's midweek Champions League victory over Atletico Madrid, with this display described as leggy, sloppy, and uncertain. Iraola made only three changes from the midweek win, a decision that drew scrutiny given the uncharacteristic errors from key players like Florian Wirtz, Kostas Tsimikas, and Dominik Szoboszlai.
Fulham's resilience was evident, with defender Jeremy Jacquet making a crucial goal-line clearance to deny Gonzalo Garcia after a misplaced pass from Alisson presented a clear danger. Despite the significant investment in Liverpool's forward line, it was often their defensive efforts that were most vital.
The atmosphere within Anfield was subdued, with the biggest cheer of the afternoon reportedly coming from an update on Chelsea's losing score against Hull. Frustration was a common sentiment among the home crowd, with one spectator overheard describing the play as "absolute garbage" as they left the stadium.
Fulham, managed by Alvaro Arbeloa, displayed a confident approach that belied their league position. Antonee Robinson tested Alisson with a shot, while substitutes Rodrigo Muniz and Kevin were unable to capitalize on opportunities. The visitors played with a composed confidence, at times progressing through Liverpool's lines with ease.
Liverpool created few clear-cut chances. Bradley Barcola, making his first Premier League start, provided an assist for Alexander Isak, who fired wide from a tight angle. Isak, who had shown glimpses of his potential, was often well-marshalled by Fulham captain Calvin Bassey and struggled to impose himself on the game. He later flashed a header wide from a late corner.
Wirtz, in particular, appeared less effective than in his midweek Champions League outing. While he found decent positions, his efforts often lacked conviction or accuracy, with several shots drifting wide of the target. Szoboszlai, usually a threat from set pieces, could not find a late winner, with his stoppage-time free-kick striking the wall.
The game saw visible frustration from Iraola on the touchline, particularly regarding Fulham's pace in taking set pieces. The draw leaves Liverpool searching for form at home, while Fulham will take encouragement from their disciplined performance at one of the league's toughest grounds.
Both Iraola and Arbeloa have a history as players, having competed for a right-back spot in the Spanish national team, with Arbeloa often having the upper hand. On this occasion, while not a clear victory for Arbeloa's side, they secured a valuable point against a heavily favored opponent.