Tottenham’s steep decline persisted as their chances of breaking into the Premier League’s top four dimmed further following a convincing defeat by Liverpool at Anfield.
With Aston Villa’s loss at Brighton, Spurs had a golden opportunity to advance their bid for next season’s Champions League. However, even a spirited late rally couldn’t prevent them from succumbing to a fourth consecutive defeat, as Liverpool regained their form after a recent dip.
Mohamed Salah, moving past a recent sideline dispute with manager Jurgen Klopp at West Ham, initiated the scoring with a header from Cody Gakpo’s cross at the far post after 16 minutes. Andy Robertson then doubled the lead just before halftime, capitalizing on a rebound from Tottenham goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario, who had parried Salah’s shot.
Disciplinary issues surfaced among the Spurs players, with Vicario having to intervene between teammates Cristian Romero and Emerson Royal as tensions flared at halftime. The situation didn’t improve in the second half as Ange Postecoglou’s team struggled against a dominant Liverpool.
Gakpo added a third goal with a header from Harvey Elliott’s delivery five minutes into the second half, followed by Elliott himself scoring with a stunning 20-yard curler into the top corner at the 59th minute.
Despite Liverpool’s temporary lapse which allowed substitutes Richarlison and Heung-Min Son to reduce the deficit, it was too late for Spurs to mount a comeback. They remain seven points adrift of fourth-placed Aston Villa, despite having a game in hand.
Liverpool rediscover cutting edge
Liverpool may have finished the game with some unexpected nerves around Anfield, but for the first hour, they displayed their commanding and formidable form.
The two goals from Tottenham narrowed the margin more than Liverpool’s dominant play warranted, but the victory was never truly in jeopardy.
Salah, having moved past his recent spat with manager Klopp at London Stadium, was pivotal, opening the scoring and playing a role in Robertson’s goal.
However, it was Elliott who stole the spotlight for Liverpool, not only assisting Gakpo’s goal but also scoring a brilliant goal himself with a powerful drive past Vicario.
The atmosphere also hinted at a rehearsal for what will be Klopp’s final match after a remarkable nine-year tenure, set to occur when Wolves visit Anfield on the season’s last day.
Throughout the game, Klopp was celebrated with songs from The Kop, to which he responded with his signature fist pumps after a tense finish secured the win.
While Klopp was not rallying the Kop for a final title push—given that Liverpool’s hopes for multiple trophies this season have faded—it certainly laid the groundwork for what promises to be an emotional farewell at Anfield in two weeks.
Too little too late from Spurs
Tottenham’s poor performance during the first hour at Anfield had them on the brink of embarrassment, though a Richarlison-led rally in the last 20 minutes did restore a bit of dignity. Nonetheless, it was another disheartening day for Postecoglou and his team.
Like many times this season, Postecoglou’s offensive strategy left Spurs vulnerable, allowing Liverpool to exploit the situation as Newcastle United, Arsenal, and Chelsea had done previously.
Tensions within the team were apparent at halftime when goalkeeper Vicario had to step in to separate defenders Romero and Royal as they clashed while leaving the field.
The game shifted dramatically after the introduction of Richarlison, who is rumored to be leaving Spurs this summer. Despite being taunted for his past association with Everton, he thrived under the pressure, turning the game dynamic and continuously troubling the Liverpool defense.
Although Spurs briefly appeared capable of an improbable comeback after scoring twice, their overall performance did not merit a result, given Liverpool’s dominance. Their prospects for securing a Champions League spot now appear bleak.
Player of the match:
Harvey Elliott