Controversial Kane goal opens scoring for Spurs
The match between Liverpool and Tottenham was filled with controversy, leaving Reds’ manager Jurgen Klopp fuming after the 2-1 loss. The flashpoint occurred midway through the first half when Spurs’ Harry Kane scored the opening goal.
Kane challenged Liverpool’s Fabinho in the air, with the two players coming together. As they fell to the ground, the loose ball broke kindly for Kane who slotted it home. However, Liverpool players immediately surrounded the referee claiming Fabinho had been fouled.
After a thorough VAR review, the goal was upheld. A livid Klopp could not believe the decision, claiming Kane had pushed Fabinho. The German manager made his displeasure known to the officials at halftime.
Salah’s equalizer gives Liverpool hope
Despite feeling hard done by on the opening goal, Liverpool responded well to level the match before halftime. A penetrating pass from Darwin Nunez found Mohamed Salah in space behind the Spurs’ defense.
Showing trademark composure, Salah calmly slotted a left footed finish beyond Hugo Lloris and into the far corner. Anfield erupted at the equalizer right before the break. It was a big psychological boost for Liverpool heading into the second half.
Controversial penalty the difference for Spurs
In an extremely tense second half, controversy struck again in the 76th minute with Spurs being awarded a penalty. As Rodrigo Bentancur surged into the box, he appeared to slip and lost control of the ball.
Liverpool’s Thiago stuck out a leg but seemed to make little contact. However, the referee immediately pointed to the spot. After another lengthy VAR review, the decision stood.
Harry Kane stepped up and powered the penalty straight down the middle, restoring Spurs’ lead. A livid Klopp could not believe Liverpool had conceded another critical goal from a controversial call.
Klopp vents fury at ‘crazy’ decisions
In his post-match interview, Klopp did not hold back, fuming at the ‘crazy’ decisions that he felt cost Liverpool dearly. He felt Kane’s push was a clear foul and claimed the penalty decision was baffling.
Klopp conceded Liverpool did not do enough to win but felt hard done by on the two key moments that both went against his team. He rued the officials being too quick to allow advantage to the attacking team, saying it undermined defenders.
While Klopp tried to be diplomatic at times, it was clear he was seething at the controversial calls. He sarcastically applauded the officials at the final whistle. The defeat was a major blow for Liverpool’s title hopes as they lost ground on early pace-setters Arsenal.
