Liverpool's Premier League Woes: A Shocking Four-Game Losing Streak
In a stunning turn of events, Liverpool, the reigning Premier League champions, have suffered their fourth consecutive league defeat, matching their worst-ever run in the competition. But here's where it gets controversial... this loss to Brentford on Saturday has sparked a debate among fans and analysts alike.
Despite a morale-boosting 5-1 victory over Eintracht Frankfurt in the Champions League midweek, Liverpool couldn't carry that momentum into their Premier League clash. They found themselves trailing early, with Brentford's Dango Ouattara striking first, and Kevin Schade doubling the lead before halftime. Milos Kerkez's goal just before the break gave Liverpool a glimmer of hope.
And this is the part most people miss: Liverpool's struggles aren't just a blip. They've now joined an exclusive club of defending champions who've endured similar slumps, including their own 2020-21 side and Manchester City in 2024-25. It's a stark reminder that even the best teams can hit rough patches.
Arne Slot's Brentford, without their star signing Alexander Isak due to injury, have already matched their entire loss tally from last season's title-winning campaign in just nine games. Liverpool, once atop the league, now find themselves in seventh, with the threat of falling further behind leaders Arsenal.
Slot was well aware of Brentford's long throw threat, yet Liverpool couldn't contain them early on. Mohamed Salah, back in the starting lineup, had a chance but was denied by his former teammate Caoimhín Kelleher. Florian Wirtz should have scored, but his shot went wide, and Brentford's adventurous play almost saw Jordan Henderson, a former Liverpool captain, double their lead.
The second goal came in the 45th minute, with Schade outpacing Ibrahima Konaté after a perfect pass from Mikkel Damsgaard. But Liverpool grabbed a lifeline just before halftime through Kerkez.
Brentford were furious that the referee allowed play to continue beyond the added time, with manager Keith Andrews expressing his anger. However, the referee's decision to add extra time for Brentford's time-wasting throws could have been justified.
After the break, a penalty was awarded to Brentford after Virgil Van Dijk's challenge on Ouattara, with Igor Thiago converting from the spot. With time ticking away, Salah finally found the net, but it wasn't enough to secure a draw. Brentford's defense held firm, and the win was celebrated with the passion of a goal by the home team.
This report incorporates information from PA and ESPN Research, highlighting the dramatic turn of events in the Premier League.
