Liverpool's Mo Salah delivered a standout performance on Saturday, scoring both goals in a 2-0 victory over Bournemouth. This win not only solidified Liverpool's position at the top of the Premier League table but also extended their lead to nine points. The match, however, was marred by an injury to Trent Alexander-Arnold, raising questions about his availability for the upcoming Carabao Cup semi-final against Tottenham.
The match at the Vitality Stadium saw Salah convert a penalty in the first half, followed by a brilliant solo goal after the break. His efforts ensured that Liverpool secured their 17th win in 23 games this season. Despite the scoreline, Bournemouth put up a robust fight, striking the post twice and having a goal disallowed in the first half.
Liverpool's victory came from a quick transition that caught Bournemouth off-guard. Salah's penalty was awarded after a foul on Cody Gakpo, who had seemingly evaded Lewis Cook while chasing a long ball into the penalty area. Salah's kick was precise, slipping just beyond the reach of Kepa.
However, the match took a concerning turn for Liverpool when Alexander-Arnold limped off in the second half due to a muscle injury. Arne Slot, Liverpool's coach, described the incident, stating, "He asked me if he could come off and then he went down." Slot noted that Alexander-Arnold was unable to provide specific details about his injury immediately after it occurred.
"He felt something; I can't tell you exactly what it is because it is only now an hour after it happened but it is never a good sign if the player is asking for a substitution," Slot added. Given the circumstances, Slot expressed skepticism regarding Alexander-Arnold's participation in Thursday's Carabao Cup semi-final second leg against Tottenham. "I would be surprised if he plays on Thursday, but let's hope he is back as soon as possible."
Bournemouth's manager, Andoni Iraola, expressed frustration regarding his team's performance. He acknowledged that despite losing, his players had multiple chances to score. "They hit the bar or the post two times and they were constantly trying to force things. They had other chances as well and I don't think we actually controlled the game. It was an open and even game which everyone has here because all the teams struggle here," Iraola explained.
The disallowed goal came from Antoine Semenyo, whose powerful shot rattled Liverpool's goalframe but ultimately did not count due to an earlier foul. VAR upheld referee Darren England's decision on the field regarding the penalty awarded to Liverpool.
With Liverpool now set to host Tottenham on Thursday, they aim to overturn a 1-0 first-leg deficit in the Carabao Cup semi-final. The match will be broadcast live on Sky Sports Football and Main Event starting at 7 PM, with kick-off at 8 PM.
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