Liverpool were forced to settle for a 1-1 draw against Sunderland at Anfield, with Florian Wirtz's deflected effort earning the Premier League champions a point. The result extends a worrying run for Arne Slot's side, who have now won just four of their last 14 games in all competitions.
Sunderland took the lead in the 70th minute through Chemsdine Talbi, whose shot deflected off Virgil van Dijk and into the net. The goal came after a mistake from the Liverpool captain, who miscontrolled and misplaced a clearance straight to Enzo Le Fée. The visitors had earlier hit the woodwork through Trai Hume and Omar Alderete.
Liverpool struggled to create clear chances until the 81st minute, when Wirtz's shot was turned into his own net by Sunderland defender Nordi Mukiele. The hosts pushed for a winner but were nearly caught out in stoppage time, with substitute Federico Chiesa making a goalline clearance to deny Wilson Isidor.
Slot admitted his side needed a moment of magic to equalise, praising Chiesa's defensive work. Sunderland head coach Régis Le Bris said his team are learning fast in the Premier League after a performance that belied their status as a newly promoted side.
