For the third consecutive match, Arne Slot decided to leave Mohamed Salah on the bench, opting for Dominik Szoboszlai to start on the right in a 4-2-3-1 formation.
In the first half, Liverpool had promising moments and appeared composed in possession; however, they found it difficult to penetrate Leeds’ defensive setup.
Despite attempts from Cody Gakpo, Florian Wirtz, and Hugo Ekitike, they could not challenge goalkeeper Lucas Perri, although Curtis Jones came close by hitting the woodwork with a curling shot from outside the area.
Although Slot could have been tempted to introduce Salah or Alexander Isak, who were both on the bench, he held off. Early in the second half, Liverpool received an unexpected opportunity when Joe Rodon made a dreadful pass just three minutes in.
Ekitike capitalized on the mistake, skillfully maneuvering past Ethan Ampadu before scoring.
This goal marked the 23-year-old’s first in the Premier League since September 20, but throughout a challenging season for Slot’s team, Ekitike has been a standout performer.
His second goal illustrated his instincts as he bundled the ball in from close range, making him the first Liverpool player to score twice in a single match this season.
Liverpool only had themselves to blame for allowing Leeds to fight back into the game. Slot’s reluctance to bring on Salah highlighted the player’s recent struggles.
Once a regular starter with 53 consecutive appearances in the Premier League, the 33-year-old has now been benched for three matches and is set to leave for the Africa Cup of Nations after next week.
Nevertheless, with only four wins in their last 15 matches, the challenges facing Liverpool and Slot extend far beyond the form of any single player.
Having led 2-0, and later 3-2, they should have secured the victory, but their ongoing issues persist.