Liverpool Hold Firm to Beat Wolves 2–1 and End Year in Top Four

Liverpool closed out the year with a narrow 2–1 victory over Wolves at Anfield, though what initially looked set to be a comfortable evening before the interval turned into an anxious test of nerve against the Premier League’s bottom side.

Federico Chiesa was handed his first Premier League start at Anfield, having previously only started in the top flight away at Brighton after the title had already been secured last May. Liverpool, who have now won 17 of their last 20 league matches played between Christmas and New Year, began with control but initially struggled to convert possession into clear chances.

The breakthrough finally arrived four minutes before the break. Jeremie Frimpong surged past two defenders down the right and cut the ball back from the byline.

Wolves failed to react quickly enough, allowing Ryan Gravenberch to step onto the loose ball and guide a composed first-time finish into the bottom corner beyond José Sá.

Barely a minute later, Anfield was celebrating again. Wolves were caught out on the halfway line as Matt Doherty lost possession, and Hugo Ekitike capitalised. The forward glided past André with ease before threading an inch-perfect through ball into the box. Florian Wirtz slotted the ball past Sá to score his maiden Liverpool goal and his first at Anfield.

Ekitike’s assist continued an impressive run, with the Frenchman now involved in goals in each of his last four Premier League appearances.

At 2–0, Liverpool looked to be cruising, but the tone changed quickly after the restart. Wolves pulled one back six minutes into the second half following a corner. João Gomes delivered into the area, where Toluwalase Arokodare rose highest. Alisson produced a strong save, but Santiago Bueno reacted fastest to tap in the rebound and give the visitors renewed belief.

What followed was an uncomfortable second half for Arne Slot’s side. Liverpool struggled to regain control and allowed Wolves to grow in confidence, making the contest far more nervy than expected. The hosts dropped their intensity and invited pressure, while the visitors sensed a potential route back into the game.

In the end, Liverpool held firm to secure all three points. After appearing in complete command at the interval, a disjointed second-half display followed that almost allowed the league’s bottom club to salvage a point.

Still, the win ensured Liverpool ended the year on a positive note, remaining in the top four as they move into the new year.