Mohamed Salah’s controversial penalty helped Liverpool secure a 2-0 victory over Bournemouth on February 1, 2025, extending their lead at the top of the Premier League to nine points.
The win, which moved the Reds further clear of second-placed Arsenal, came with its fair share of drama, particularly surrounding the penalty decision that sparked outrage among the Bournemouth players and fans.
The match at Bournemouth’s Vitality Stadium saw Liverpool take the lead in the 30th minute when Salah converted a penalty awarded after Cody Gakpo appeared to trip over his own feet, rather than being fouled by Lewis Cook. Despite protests from the home side, referee Darren England’s decision was upheld by VAR, which confirmed that Cook had made contact with Gakpo and that the latter was onside during the buildup.
“The referee’s call of penalty was checked and confirmed by VAR – with the challenge deemed to have been a trip by Cook on Gakpo. The VAR also confirmed Gakpo was onside in the build-up,” the Premier League said in a statement.
Salah stepped up to take the spot-kick, calmly slotting it into the corner to give Liverpool the lead. The Egyptian forward, who has been in scintillating form this season, scored his 21st goal in just 23 league matches, marking his fifth consecutive season with 20 or more Premier League goals. With this goal, he also moved past Frank Lampard to claim the sixth spot on the all-time Premier League goalscoring chart, now with 178 career goals.
Liverpool doubled their lead in the 75th minute when Salah scored again, finishing expertly after being played through by Curtis Jones. This goal sealed the victory and handed Liverpool their 17th win in 23 league matches this season. Under manager Arne Slot, Liverpool are now unbeaten in 19 league games and look poised to challenge for their first Premier League title since 2020.
Bournemouth, who had enjoyed impressive home victories over Manchester City and Arsenal earlier this season, came close to equalizing several times. However, despite some near-misses, including a long-range shot from Marcus Tavernier that hit the post, they were unable to break down Liverpool’s defense. Bournemouth’s frustrations were further compounded when a potential equalizer from David Brooks was ruled out for offside.
