Liverpool’s perfect Premier League start continued at Turf Moor on Sunday, but it was far from comfortable. Mohamed Salah’s 95th-minute penalty salvaged a 1-0 win for the Reds over a dogged Burnley side, one that made life difficult for the visitors until the very last moments..
Burnley, recently promoted, came into the match determined to frustrate, setting up with a tight, disciplined defensive unit under Scott Parker. From kick-off they showed they were not here just to defend, but to make life awkward for Liverpool.
Possession was ceded, space limited, and any attempt from the Reds to probe between the lines was met with a solid block or smart covering.
Though Liverpool dominated the ball—possession was heavily weighted in their favour—they found few openings, and most of their early shots were speculative rather than truly threatening.
Dominik Szoboszlai had one of the better chances in the second half, but Burnley goalkeeper Martin Dúbravka stood firm, denying him with a sharp save.
Liverpool’s lineup featured some new names and new faces. Record signing Alexander Isak was absent from the squad, Slot preferring to build his fitness and give him time to settle before thrusting him into competitive action.
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Hugo Ekitike led the line for this one, backed by contributions from Cody Gakpo, Salah, Florian Wirtz and the midfield. But despite the talent on paper, the performance often lacked sharpness. Passing in the final third was slack, crosses were defended comfortably, and Burnley rarely allowed Liverpool the space to exploit.
Burnley, for their part, were resolute. Their defensive back-five (or sometimes back-six) held firm, absorbing pressure, blocking shots, and keeping their shape well. On the rare occasions they attacked, they looked more dangerous than the scoreline suggested.
Burnley’s young players showed spirit, particularly Quilindschy Hartman, who marshalled his side’s efforts on the flank, contributing in defence and trying to push forward when possible. Lesley Ugochukwu, though eventually sent off, was part of a midfield that did its best to stifle Liverpool’s rhythm.
The tension began ratcheting up in the closing stages. Burnley were reduced to 10 men in the 84th minute when Ugochukwu received a second yellow card. That moment shifted the balance, allowing Liverpool to press ever more aggressively.
Substitutions were made to increase attacking options, but still the woodwork, blocked shots, and Dúbravka’s goalkeeping kept Burnley in the game. Liverpool’s usual fluency looked off; they were lacking a cutting edge.
Then, in stoppage time, came the moment that separated the two sides. A cross from Jeremie Frimpong found its way into a dangerous position, and Hannibal Mejbri, leaping to challenge the ball, handled it in the penalty area. A penalty was awarded, and Salah stepped up.
With calm confidence, he sent the goalkeeper the wrong way and buried the spot kick. The roar from the away fans echoed that Liverpool had finally broken the resistance.
For Liverpool this was their fourth win in as many Premier League games. It keeps alive both their lofty ambitions this season and the sense that, even when not at their best, they can find ways to win.