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Two undefeated runs remained intact at Anfield, but solely one side could derive real satisfaction from the result. Daniel Farke's men executed a textbook game plan of stifling and restricting Liverpool, with the first goalless draw of Arne Slot's reign highlighting the lingering limitations within the current title holders' latest upturn.

Resolute Masterclass Secures Vital Point

A drab goalless stalemate, the initial in 84 fixtures for Liverpool, was largely attributable to the immense dominance of the outstanding defensive duo Struijk and Bijol, coupled with the home side's failure to unlock a well-drilled Leeds defence. The Merseysiders were reduced to hopeful opportunities, and a smattering of discontent echoed around the stadium at the final whistle on a sluggish display.

"Should I do not use the whole squad and we have a schedule like this, I would never make changes," Daniel Farke explained. "With a footballer like Dominic I have to protect him. We all know his recent history was challenging. He is in incredible shape but it's vital I manage him and sometimes the mind needs to prevail over the emotion."

The Hosts' Frustration in Front of Goal

Arne Slot's team initially showed more energy and sharpness than in recent matches, with Jeremie Frimpong influential on the right side. However, clear-cut opportunities were few and far between. Their best openings in the first period involved forward Hugo Ekitiké.

• Following a neat exchange with Curtis Jones, the France forward cut inside and forced a stop from keeper Lucas Perri at his front post.
• The visitors' shot-stopper could not hold the shot, needing a crucial block from James Justin to stop Florian Wirtz converting the loose ball.
• Ekitiké later raced clear onto a long ball but was impeded by Jaka Bijol; although staying on his feet, his shouts for a spot-kick were dismissed.

Missed Chances Prove Costly

Ekitiké's afternoon worsened when he failed to hit the target with his clearest chance. Meeting a swift Frimpong delivery in the goal area, the attacker misdirected a glance that hit the goalkeeper while facing an open goal.

For Leeds, their clearest sight of goal arrived from an Alisson error. The Brazilian shot-stopper sent a wayward pass directly to midfielder Ethan Ampadu, whose first-time shot returned down the centre was saved by the recovering Alisson.

Turgid Final Stages

The contest descended into a scrappy encounter, devoid on incident. Dominik Szoboszlai, back from suspension, forced a save from Perri from distance. The subsequent rebound led to Ampadu handling the ball, awarding Liverpool a free-kick in a dangerous position, which Wirtz sent into the wall.

The Liverpool manager made a triple substitution to inject urgency, and soon after Virgil van Dijk came close to heading his side in front from a corner, his header flying just past the post.

Late introduction Dominic Calvert-Lewin believed he had continued his goal streak for the visitors in the final stages, but his finish was ruled out for a marginal offside call. Ultimately, both teams had to accept a single of the spoils.