The result leaves Liverpool winless after their opening two matches, following a 2-2 draw with Newcastle in their first game. This also marks Liverpool's third consecutive Premier League match without a win, stretching back to last season. Forest continued to prove a challenging opponent at Anfield, having beaten Liverpool in their two most recent visits before this match.

Liam Delap (left) of Nottingham Forest challenges Virgil van Dijk of Liverpool during their Premier League match at Anfield, Liverpool, England, 29/8/2026. Photo: AP

Forest started stronger, opening the scoring in the 24th minute. From a long ball by goalkeeper Matz Sels, Igor Jesus controlled it and passed to Gibbs-White. The midfielder then found Ndoye, allowing the Swiss striker to take a touch before striking with his right foot into the far corner. This was Ndoye's first Premier League goal since 8/2025, equaling his total from the entire previous season, where he scored just one goal in 24 matches.

The goal highlighted Liverpool's defensive sluggishness. After 20 minutes, the Anfield side had not registered a single shot. This was one of only three times Liverpool failed to take a shot in the first 20 minutes at home since the start of the 2024-2025 season; two of those three matches were against teams managed by coach Oliver Glasner.

Liverpool thought they had equalized in the 33rd minute when Florian Wirtz scored against Forest. However, VAR ruled Jeremie Frimpong offside in the build-up, disallowing the goal. Anfield fans celebrated before their joy turned to disappointment. A live FotMob poll showed that 54% of nearly 20,000 participants believed Wirtz's goal should have stood, arguing the player who made the final touch was in a passive position.

After halftime, Liverpool increased their pressure. The home team dominated possession with 76,6% in the second half. Their efforts paid off in the 60th minute when Wirtz passed to Gakpo on the left wing. The Dutch forward delivered a cross for Isak to tap in from close range, leveling the score.

This was Isak's first goal in front of the Kop stand since joining Liverpool. The Swedish striker has now scored 7 goals in 6 appearances against Forest.

However, just eight minutes later, Liverpool found themselves in trouble again. In the 68th minute, Forest were awarded a penalty after Alisson fouled Neco Williams in the box. The situation originated from a quick throw-in by new signing Liam Delap. VAR reviewed the incident and upheld referee Sam Barrott's decision.

Gibbs-White calmly converted the penalty, sending Alisson the wrong way and slotting it into the bottom corner. This marked Forest's 10th consecutive successful penalty in the Premier League. Gibbs-White has never missed a penalty in his career in the league.

Trailing for the second time, Liverpool refused to give up. In the 82nd minute, Szoboszlai delivered a through ball into the box, allowing Munoz to control, turn, and strike with his right foot into the far corner. The goal salvaged a draw for Liverpool and ignited the Anfield crowd. With this strike, Munoz became the 11th Spanish player to score for Liverpool in the Premier League, matching Manchester City's record.

The draw suggests Liverpool still has areas to improve under Andoni Iraola. Nevertheless, Liverpool extended their unbeaten record in 23 season-opening home matches at Anfield, comprising 17 wins and five draws.

Xuan Binh