Kostas Tsimikas and Diogo Jota made an instant impact off the bench in the 65th minute, combining with their first touches to equalize for Liverpool just 22 seconds after their introduction. The Premier League leaders drew 1-1 with Nottingham Forest, but new footage of the goal’s buildup has sparked debate about its legitimacy.
Chris Wood had opened the scoring for Forest within eight minutes, capitalizing on a rare chance and igniting the City Ground crowd. Liverpool struggled to break through Forest’s defense, only registering their first shot on target in the 60th minute. It appeared Nuno Espírito Santo’s side might secure a league double over Liverpool following their earlier 1-0 win at Anfield this season.
The narrative shifted when Jota, unmarked at a corner, headed in the equalizer. Despite a late push from Liverpool, Forest held firm, with Ola Aina’s crucial goal-line clearance preserving a point and keeping them within six points of the league leaders. However, controversy surrounds Liverpool’s equalizer, with former PGMOL chief Keith Hackett offering his perspective.
Keith Hackett Criticizes ‘Dark Arts’ in Liverpool’s Equalizer
Footage circulated on social media after the match shows Cody Gakpo appearing to block goalkeeper Matz Sels in the buildup to Jota’s goal. This action seemingly impeded Sels from challenging for the ball—a tactic that has led to disallowed goals in the past. Arsenal fans, eager to see their team narrow the gap on Liverpool, expressed outrage over the incident not being reviewed.
Keith Hackett, speaking to Football Insider, acknowledged the controversy but suggested there was little chance of VAR intervening:
“Positioning a forward to block the goalkeeper is one of the ‘dark arts’ in football. While no player owns space on the pitch, it’s surprising goalkeeping coaches haven’t developed strategies to counter what I see as an unfair tactic. That said, replays show the goalkeeper should have been more assertive. VAR wouldn’t have intervened—good goal.”
Jota’s header ensured the points were shared, keeping Liverpool six points clear at the top. As the Premier League title race continues, Arsenal will aim to capitalize in their upcoming clash against Tottenham at the Emirates Stadium on Wednesday.
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