Darwin Nunez's Stoppage-Time Brace Lifts Liverpool

Cataleya

January 19, 2025 · 1 min read

Darwin Nunez's Stoppage-Time Brace Lifts Liverpool
FootBall | January 19, 2025
Darwin Nunez (center) celebrates after scoring his second goal in a stoppage-time brace for Liverpool. (Image: AFP)

Darwin Nunez scored twice in stoppage time to guide Liverpool to a 2-0 win over Brentford, extending their lead at the top of the Premier League. The result marked Liverpool’s first league win of 2025 after draws against Manchester United and Nottingham Forest. Nunez broke the deadlock in the 91st minute, converting Trent Alexander-Arnold’s low cross from close range. Two minutes later, the Uruguayan displayed composure in a crowded box to finish a counter-attack, sealing the points for Liverpool.

Despite their late breakthrough, Liverpool dominated possession and created numerous chances throughout the match. Dominik Szoboszlai hit the crossbar in the first half, and Luis Diaz missed a clear header at the far post. Brentford, on the other hand, sat deep and posed minimal threat on the counter-attack. Striker Bryan Mbeumo was isolated and top scorer Yoane Wissa struggled against Liverpool’s resolute defensive pairing of Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konate.

The victory leaves Liverpool six points clear of second-placed Arsenal with a game in hand. Brentford, who have now lost three of their last four home games, remain 11th. The Gtech Community Stadium which had been a fortress earlier in the season has seen a dip in form with Brentford now winless in seven league matches. Liverpool’s clinical edge returned through Nunez, whose late heroics answered manager Arne Slot’s call for decisive contributions.

With Diogo Jota sidelined by injury, Darwin Nunez’s resurgence could prove pivotal in the title race. Brentford manager Thomas Frank will look for improvement against weaker opponents in upcoming fixtures as his side seeks to regain their early-season momentum. Meanwhile, Liverpool’s determined display reaffirmed their status as title favorites.