Southampton manager Ivan Juric has strongly criticized the decision to award Liverpool a crucial penalty in their 3-1 victory at Anfield, claiming the call was influenced by the scoreline. The Saints had taken a shock lead through Will Smallbone after a defensive mishap between Virgil van Dijk and Alisson Becker. However, Liverpool responded in the second half, with Darwin Nunez equalizing before winning the disputed penalty just minutes later.
The spot-kick, converted by Mohamed Salah, put Liverpool ahead, and the Egyptian added another penalty late in the game to seal the win. Despite the result, Juric remained frustrated with the officiating, particularly the decision to penalize Smallbone for what he considered minimal contact on Nunez. The Southampton boss expressed disbelief that the referee pointed to the spot, suggesting the call was made simply because Liverpool were not leading at the time.
“They reacted really well, and we had some really good moments in the first half,” Juric told the BBC after the match. “But that first penalty was never a penalty, and it changed the match completely. I am proud of my players, but I’m disappointed with that decision.” He added, “It should never be a penalty, ever. Unfortunately, it happened at 1-1, and it shifted the game. We have a lot of young players who are trying to develop, and these moments are tough for them.”
Liverpool’s comeback was sparked by three halftime substitutions made by Arne Slot, who saw his side struggle in the first half. The tactical changes paid off almost immediately, with Nunez breaking his goal drought since January 18 by leveling the score in the 51st minute. Just minutes later, he went down inside the box under pressure from Smallbone, prompting the referee to award the controversial penalty.
Despite Juric’s frustration, Salah had nothing but praise for his teammate, acknowledging Nunez’s impact on the match and his importance to the team. “He is a very important player for us,” Salah said post-match. “I’m always talking to him, and we need him. He was also crucial in the PSG game when he came in and made a difference. It’s great for him to get on the scoresheet again.”
Liverpool’s victory extended their lead at the top of the Premier League table, while Southampton remained at the bottom, fighting to avoid relegation. The Saints put up a strong fight in the first half but ultimately could not contain Liverpool’s second-half resurgence.
While the debate over the penalty decision will continue, Liverpool’s dominance after the break ensured they walked away with all three points. Southampton, despite their disappointment, can take positives from their performance as they continue their battle for survival in the league.