Liverpool overcomes Bournemouth as Salah strikes twice

Liverpool secured a hard-fought 2-0 victory over Bournemouth at the Vitality Stadium, extending their lead at the top of the Premier League to nine points. The match was marked by a controversial penalty decision involving Cody Gakpo, while Mohamed Salah’s brace ensured Arne Slot’s side continued their winning streak.

Controversial penalty sparks debate

The breakthrough moment arrived in the 26th minute when Cody Gakpo went to ground following a challenge from Bournemouth defender Lewis Cook. Replays suggested that Gakpo may have initiated the fall by clipping his own leg, but referee Darren England immediately pointed to the spot. Despite the questionable nature of the decision, VAR did not intervene.

Mohamed Salah stepped up to take the penalty and made no mistake, sending Bournemouth goalkeeper Neto the wrong way to give Liverpool a 1-0 lead.

Bournemouth threatens as Kluivert misses key chance

Despite the setback, Bournemouth remained a threat throughout the match. The home side thought they had equalized when David Brooks found the net in the first half, only for the goal to be ruled out for offside.

In the second half, Justin Kluivert—who has been in top form this season with 11 Premier League goals—had a golden opportunity to level the score. After a teammate’s shot rebounded off the post, the Dutchman found himself with an open goal but failed to convert, missing wide in a moment he will want to forget.

Salah seals the win with stunning finish

Liverpool endured periods of pressure but remained resilient at the back, with Virgil van Dijk and Ryan Gravenberch playing crucial roles in keeping Bournemouth at bay.

The visitors wrapped up the victory with a moment of brilliance from Salah in the 75th minute. Finishing off a swift counterattack, the Egyptian curled the ball beautifully into the far top corner, securing all three points for Liverpool.

Another step towards the title

The win marks Liverpool’s third consecutive Premier League victory, maintaining their strong position at the top of the table. After a midweek Champions League defeat to PSV (3-2), where Slot fielded a rotated squad, the Reds bounced back in style.

With a nine-point cushion over second-placed Arsenal, Liverpool continues to strengthen their grip on the title race. For Bournemouth, and particularly Kluivert, this was a missed opportunity to make an impact against the league leaders.

As the season progresses, Slot’s side looks increasingly difficult to stop, with their resilience and firepower proving decisive in yet another Premier League triumph.