Liverpool hold off nine-man Tottenham for 2-1 win at Spurs

Liverpool survived a late scare to beat Tottenham 2-1 at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on Saturday, extending their winning run to three games in all competitions. The match swung on two red cards for Spurs: Xavi Simons was shown a straight red for a reckless, late challenge on Virgil van Dijk just before halftime, giving Liverpool a man advantage heading into the break and shifting momentum in the visitors’ favor.

Alexander Isak, who came on at halftime, fired Liverpool ahead with a smart finish just before the hour mark but was then forced off with an injury after a clash with Micky van de Ven as the ball rippled the net.

Hugo Ekitike doubled Liverpool's lead with a well-placed header on 66 minutes, continuing his hot run with five goals in three league games. Tottenham pulled one back late when Richarlison, who had come off the bench, finished from close range to set up a nervy finish, while Cristian Romero was sent off for a second yellow card after lashing out at Ibrahima Konate. The timely red card for Romero came as Tottenham pushed to claw back a result and spoiled what had looked like a controlled away performance.

Florian Wirtz was Liverpool's most creative presence on the day, producing a standout performance and providing the key setup for Isak's opener. The German playmaker and his midfield teammates helped Liverpool win the middle third and pin Spurs back, with Wirtz delivering one of his best-game showings in a Liverpool shirt. Alisson Becker and a re-energized back line also deserved mention for repelling late pressure, including a crucial block by Konate in the final moments that helped preserve the win.

Liverpool manager Arne Slot, while pleased with the result, acknowledged room for improvement in game management, saying his side must be sharper to close out matches against physical opposition. Tottenham manager Thomas Frank faced a difficult afternoon, with his side twice punished for indiscipline and a consequential red card count that ultimately left nine men on the field for a portion of the second half. Tottenham had created chances and pressed for a late equaliser, but could not capitalise on the moments they crafted.

The result underscores a developing narrative for both sides this season. Isak, signed as a British-record move, made an immediate impact after his half-time introduction, while Ekitike continued to demonstrate his eye for goal, reinforcing Liverpool's attacking depth as they chase top-half consistency. For Tottenham, the defeat adds to the defensively fraught episodes that have punctuated their campaign and highlights the challenge of maintaining discipline in a heated late stage of the match.