Liverpool have clinched a spot in next season’s UEFA Champions League after battling to a 1-1 draw against Brentford at Anfield on the final day of the Premier League campaign.
Curtis Jones delivers in Mohamed Salah’s final appearance
The Reds entered the match knowing a point would be enough to secure a top-four finish, and the squad delivered exactly that. Curtis Jones opened the scoring just before the hour mark, assisted by Mohamed Salah in what turned out to be the Egyptian’s final contribution for the club. That strike restored Liverpool’s lead in the match after Brentford had quickly equalized through Kevin Schade.
Arne Slot’s side showed composure throughout the encounter, managing the game with maturity to ensure they maintained their position in the Champions League qualification spots. The result means Liverpool will compete in Europe’s premier club competition once again, a testament to their consistency over the season.
A memorable farewell for Salah and Robertson
The match served as a fitting farewell for two of Liverpool’s most iconic figures. Mohamed Salah, who leaves the club after a record-breaking spell, contributed with both a goal and an assist, further cementing his legacy at Anfield. Andy Robertson, another long-serving stalwart, also played his part before making way for a standing ovation from the home supporters.
The changes made by Slot reflected a blend of experience and fresh energy. Joe Gomez, Milos Kerkez, and Giorgi Mamardashvili were introduced, while key figures like Wataru Endo, Jeremie Frimpong, and Alexander Isak remained among the substitutes. Alisson Becker started in goal, with Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konaté marshaling the defense.
Key moments from a tightly contested game
Liverpool began the match on the front foot, with Ibrahima Konaté heading narrowly wide from a Trent Alexander-Arnold cross. Caoimhin Kelleher, making his return to Anfield, denied Brentford early on, while Salah came close to adding to his tally with a curling effort that rattled the crossbar.
Dominik Szoboszlai and Ryan Gravenberch both tested Kelleher in the first half, but it was Alisson who produced a crucial save to deny Schade at point-blank range, preserving Liverpool’s scoreless status at the break.
In the second half, Liverpool continued to press, and their persistence paid off when Salah set up Jones for the decisive goal. The milestone moment saw Salah break a club record with his 93rd Premier League assist for Liverpool, surpassing Steven Gerrard’s previous record of 92.
Brentford fought back strongly after the break, with Jordan Henderson receiving a warm farewell from the Anfield crowd as he was substituted. Schade quickly equalized for Brentford, but Liverpool’s resilience ensured they held firm until the final whistle.
The match saw several late chances, including a fine save by Kelleher to deny Florian Wirtz, and a close call from Dango Ouattara, who struck the crossbar. The draw ensured both teams finished on 65 points, with Liverpool securing the fourth spot on goal difference.
Attendance: 60,325
