Florian Wirtz, Liverpool's 170 million USD record signing, faced scrutiny after failing to score or assist in his first 16 Premier League appearances. Expectations were high for the German midfielder, who was anticipated to be the team's new playmaker.

Wirtz has progressively eased this pressure. In the previous round, he provided a crucial assist for Alexander Isak's goal in a 2-1 victory over Tottenham. This performance signaled his adaptation to the demanding league. In matchweek 18, Wirtz finally scored his first Premier League goal, a moment long awaited by Liverpool supporters.

Florian Wirtz scores with a delicate chip.

Celebrating with Hugo Ekitike during Liverpool's 2-1 win over Wolves in premier league matchweek 18 at Anfield, Merseyside, England on 27/12. Photo: AP

Wirtz's goal came in the 42nd minute. Following a rapid counter-attack, Hugo Ekitike, another notable summer 2025 signing for Liverpool, carried the ball from midfield. He navigated past the Wolves defense before delivering a precise through ball. Wirtz, timing his run perfectly, met the pass, faced goalkeeper Jose Sa, and scored with a delicate chip. The Anfield crowd erupted as the ball found the net. This marked the German midfielder's first goal for Liverpool, coming in his 17th appearance and from his 21st shot in the league.

Just 90 seconds prior, another Liverpool newcomer made a significant impact. Jeremie Frimpong, a defender acquired from Leverkusen for 40 million USD, surged down the right flank. He then delivered a well-placed pass to the edge of the box, where Ryan Gravenberch struck a decisive first-time shot into the near corner, leaving Jose Sa with no chance and opening the scoring for Liverpool.

Ryan Gravenberch (right) scores the opening goal. Photo: AFP

Liverpool dominated the first half, controlling play and frequently attacking down the flanks. They could have secured a larger lead, but Hugo Ekitike hit the post in the 11th minute, and Alexis Mac Allister did the same in the 28th minute, much to the home crowd's dismay.

Wolves unexpectedly rallied at the start of the second half, reducing the deficit. Following a scramble in the Liverpool penalty area, center-back Santiago Bueno capitalized on the opportunity, tapping the ball into an open net and giving the visitors renewed hope. The remainder of the match featured an engaging end-to-end contest, with both sides creating chances but failing to convert.

Santiago Bueno celebrates Wolves' goal to narrow the deficit. Photo: AP

The 2-1 victory extended Liverpool's unbeaten run across all competitions to seven matches, comprising five wins and two draws. Coach Arne Slot's team temporarily climbed to fourth in the Premier League standings with 32 points, maintaining their pursuit of the top teams.

Conversely, Wolves' crisis deepened. They became the first English club in history to earn only two points after 18 top-flight rounds and the first team in 123 years to remain winless after 18 matches. Relegation now appears to be a distinct possibility for Wolves.

In the upcoming matchweek, Liverpool will host Leeds at Anfield, while Wolves will travel to Old Trafford to play Man Utd.

Hong Duy