Liverpool clinched a spot in next season’s Champions League after securing a 1-1 draw against Brentford at Anfield in the Premier League’s final matchday. The Reds needed just a point to secure fifth place, and they got it—thanks in part to a late strike from Curtis Jones, assisted by Mohamed Salah in what was his final appearance for the club.
The visitors struck first through Kevin Schade, canceling out Jones’ opener just before the hour mark. However, Liverpool held firm and maintained their focus, ultimately ensuring their place among Europe’s elite clubs for the upcoming season.
Lineup changes and tactical adjustments
The match saw several strategic shifts from manager Arne Slot, who made three early changes following the team’s recent defeat at Aston Villa. Andy Robertson and Salah started the game, but the latter was replaced in a farewell gesture, while Alisson Becker returned to the starting XI. Joe Gomez, Milos Kerkez, and Giorgi Mamardashvili made way for fresh legs, with Wataru Endo, Jeremie Frimpong, and Alexander Isak among the substitutes.
Liverpool (4-3-3): Alisson; Van Dijk, Konaté (Gomez 90+’), Szoboszlai, Mac Allister; Salah (Frimpong 73′), Jones, Gakpo; Robertson (Kerkez 72′), Gravenberch (Nyoni 72′), Ngumoha (Wirtz 73′).
Unused substitutes: Mamardashvili, Endo, Isak, Chiesa.
A tightly contested battle
The first half saw Liverpool dominate possession but struggle to break down Brentford’s resolute defense. Ibrahima Konaté’s header from a Robertson cross was comfortably saved by Brentford keeper Mark Flekken, while Salah nearly added to his legacy with a curling effort that rattled the crossbar.
Dominik Szoboszlai forced a fine save from Flekken, and Ryan Gravenberch’s long-range attempt was also turned away. Alisson produced a crucial intervention to deny Schade at close range, keeping the score level at halftime.
Salah’s farewell goal secures the point
The second half began with Liverpool pushing hard for the winner. Just before the hour mark, Salah—playing his final minutes for the club—set up a record-breaking assist, becoming the first Liverpool player to reach 93 Premier League goal contributions, surpassing Steven Gerrard’s previous mark.
Moments later, Jones pounced on a loose ball in the box, slotting home to put Liverpool ahead. The hosts held firm despite Brentford’s late resurgence, with Jordan Henderson receiving a standing ovation upon his substitution—a fitting tribute to his legacy at the club.
Brentford equalized through Schade, who bundled in a deflected cross, but Liverpool’s fans stayed loyal, applauding both Salah and Robertson as they left the field. The match ended 1-1, securing Liverpool’s Champions League qualification.
Attendance: 60,325
