Super-sub Ao Tanaka delivered a stunning stoppage-time equaliser as Leeds United snatched a thrilling 3-3 draw, piling more frustration on misfiring Premier League champions Liverpool.
Arne Slot’s side arrived at Elland Road desperate to build on last week’s win at West Ham after a damaging run of six defeats in seven league outings, but once again their defensive frailties came back to haunt them.
Liverpool appeared to be cruising when Hugo Ekitike struck twice shortly after the restart, putting the visitors in full control following a cagey first half in which Curtis Jones rattled the crossbar and Virgil van Dijk squandered a close-range header.
But the momentum flipped dramatically. Inspired by their midweek victory over Chelsea, Leeds fought back with renewed belief. Substitute Willy Gnonto won a penalty after Ibrahima Konate’s reckless tackle, allowing Dominic Calvert-Lewin to fire past Alisson in the 73rd minute.
Two minutes later, chaos erupted again — Anton Stach danced around Alisson and drilled home the leveller as Elland Road erupted.
Although Dominik Szoboszlai restored Liverpool’s lead with a composed low finish ten minutes from time, Slot’s men failed to close the game out.
Deep into nine minutes of stoppage time, Leeds punished more sloppy set-piece defending. A corner dropped for Tanaka, whose driven effort bounced into the net, sending the home crowd into delirium.
Alexander Isak almost completed an astonishing turnaround with a late chance, but Leeds settled for a priceless point and Liverpool were left to reflect on yet another stumble in their fading title defence.
Elland Road rocked. Liverpool rattled. Leeds rewarded.
