Liverpool’s unbeaten start to the Premier League season ended with a 2-1 loss to Crystal Palace. The defeat came after a late stoppage-time winner stunned the visitors at Selhurst Park.
The match began with early pressure from Palace. They scored in the 9th minute from a well-taken set piece. Liverpool struggled to control the game in the first half. Defensive mistakes gave the home side confidence and created tension for the league leaders.
Liverpool improved in the second half and pushed hard for an equalizer. Their persistence paid off in the 87th minute when Federico Chiesa scored to make it 1-1. The goal lifted hopes of at least a point. But in added time, Palace struck again. Eddie Nketiah’s decisive goal secured a famous win for the hosts.
The late goal highlighted Liverpool’s defensive weaknesses. Set pieces and lapses in concentration cost them crucial points. The manager admitted his team were second best and stressed the need for improvement.
Despite the loss, Liverpool remain top of the table for now. However, their lead has narrowed, and pressure is rising from rivals like Manchester City and Arsenal. Both teams will see this as a chance to close the gap.
Earlier in the season, Liverpool relied on late winners to keep their perfect record. A stoppage-time penalty from Mohamed Salah against Burnley had shown their fighting spirit. But against Palace, the tables turned.
Off the field, the club also made headlines in Europe. Liverpool used a Champions League rule to replace injured defender Giovanni Leoni, keeping their squad balanced for the campaign.
The challenge for Liverpool is clear. They must fix defensive issues and bounce back quickly. With tough matches ahead, every mistake could change the title race.
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