Burnley vs Liverpool: Salah’s Stunning Late Penalty Seals Dramatic Premier League Win

Burnley vs Liverpool: A Dramatic Premier League Night

The Premier League clash between Burnley vs Liverpool on 14 September 2025 at Turf Moor was everything fans expected — intense, nerve-wracking, and ultimately decided by a moment of late drama. Liverpool secured a 1-0 victory thanks to Mohamed Salah’s 95th-minute penalty, keeping their perfect start to the season intact.

For Burnley, it was heartbreak. After defending bravely and frustrating the Reds for almost the entire match, a late handball by Hannibal Mejbri handed Liverpool the chance they needed. Salah, as always, showed no nerves and delivered from the spot.

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Key Highlights of Burnley vs Liverpool

• Final Score: Burnley 0–1 Liverpool
• Winning Goal: Mohamed Salah (95th minute, penalty)
• Burnley Red Card: Lesley Ugochukwu (84th minute, second yellow card)
• Liverpool Substitution Drama: Milos Kerkez taken off early due to risk of dismissal, replaced by Andy Robertson

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First Half: Burnley’s Defensive Wall

The match opened with Liverpool dominating possession, but Burnley’s defensive shape made it hard to find space. Arne Slot’s men pushed forward through Trent Alexander-Arnold and Luis Díaz, but Burnley’s backline held firm.

One of the tactical storylines was the substitution of Milos Kerkez, who was taken off in the 37th minute after picking up an early yellow card. Slot’s decision showed Liverpool’s focus on controlling risks and avoiding a potential red card.

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Second Half: Frustration and Late Drama

As the second half unfolded, Liverpool intensified the pressure. Darwin Núñez came close, while Burnley goalkeeper James Trafford produced a couple of vital saves.

In the 84th minute, Burnley suffered a major blow when Lesley Ugochukwu received his marching orders for a second bookable offense. Reduced to ten men, Burnley found themselves under relentless pressure.

The decisive moment arrived deep into stoppage time. Hannibal Mejbri handled the ball inside the box, and Mohamed Salah calmly slotted home the penalty to snatch three points for Liverpool.

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Records and Milestones from Burnley vs Liverpool

• With goals in the final ten minutes of games, Liverpool became the first team in Premier League history to win four straight games.
• Salah’s goal took his Premier League tally to 188, moving him to fourth place in the all-time scorers list.
• The Reds now have a 100% win record from their first four games of the 2025/26 season.

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Tactical Analysis

Liverpool’s Approach

• Ball Retention: Liverpool had more than 70% possession, but struggled to break Burnley’s low block until the final minutes.
• Substitutions: Slot’s decision to bring on Robertson for Kerkez proved vital in maintaining defensive balance while pushing forward.
• High Press: Even with limited chances, Liverpool’s pressing game kept Burnley pinned deep in their own half.

Burnley’s Strategy

• Defensive Compactness: Burnley played with discipline, forcing Liverpool wide and blocking central spaces.
• Counter Attempts: A few dangerous counters tested Alisson, but the lack of finishing quality hurt them.
• Downfall: The red card shifted momentum completely, leaving Burnley vulnerable in the dying minutes.

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Expert Reactions

• Football Analysts: Many pundits praised Burnley’s resilience but agreed the penalty decision was fair under the current handball laws.
• On Liverpool: Commentators highlighted how Arne Slot’s side is building a reputation for late goals, showing both fitness and mental toughness.
• On Salah: Experts noted that Salah continues to prove why he is one of the most reliable forwards in Premier League history.

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Future Impact of the Result

• For Liverpool:
  • Confidence boost for title ambitions.
  • Demonstrates squad depth and adaptability under Arne Slot.
  • Keeps them top of the table with momentum building.
• For Burnley:
  • Positives in defensive structure but negatives in discipline.
  • Need to improve game management when under pressure.
  • Dropping points at home could hurt their survival chances later in the season.

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Business and Broader Perspective

From a commercial angle, Burnley vs Liverpool was another showcase of the Premier League’s global appeal. The late drama ensured high television ratings and social media buzz, with Salah trending worldwide after his match-winning penalty.

For Liverpool, each dramatic victory strengthens brand value and fan engagement, particularly in key markets like Asia and the Middle East. Burnley, despite the loss, gain exposure by competing strongly against one of Europe’s elite clubs. (Burnley vs Liverpool)