Liverpool achieved a remarkable milestone in the Premier League thanks to Alexis Mac Allister’s late winner against Nottingham Forest on Sunday (22/2/2026). The dramatic goal not only secured three points at the City Ground but also marked the seventh time this season that Liverpool scored a decisive goal in the 90th minute or later—a new record for any team in a single Premier League campaign.
Mac Allister’s strike came after an earlier 88th-minute goal was disallowed for handball, leaving fans on edge. The Argentine midfielder finally found the net during the seventh minute of added time, turning a potentially frustrating draw into a historic triumph for The Reds.
Dramatic Late Goals Define Liverpool’s Season
Liverpool’s knack for late winners has been a defining feature of their 2025/26 season. In addition to the recent victory over Nottingham Forest, the team recorded injury-time winners against Newcastle United in August 2025 and Burnley in September 2025.
However, the Reds have also conceded decisive goals in stoppage time, demonstrating the fine margins in their matches. Goals against Crystal Palace (September 2025), Chelsea (October 2025), Bournemouth (January 2026), and Manchester City (February 2026) underscore how critical late-game focus has become for both offensive and defensive strategies.
“Scoring in injury time shows the character and resilience of this squad,” said manager Arne Slot. “It’s never easy to break down organized teams, and players like Mac Allister have the composure to deliver when it matters most.”
Challenges Against Nottingham Forest
The match against Nottingham Forest was far from straightforward. Liverpool struggled to impose themselves in the first half, limited to just two shots due to Forest’s aggressive pressing. Despite dominating possession later in the game, the hosts arguably deserved a point for their resilient defensive effort.
Liverpool’s persistence paid off in the dying moments, reflecting the team’s growing ability to grind out results under pressure. This victory was part of a positive run that has seen the Reds win five of their last six matches across all competitions and lose only twice in their last 20 games.
While Liverpool are yet to consistently display the dominant form that led them to the Premier League title in 2024/25, their ability to secure points in crucial moments suggests a more resilient and focused side emerging in this season’s critical stages.
Champions League Ambitions
Currently, Liverpool sit sixth in the league with 45 points, level with Chelsea in fifth and Manchester United in fourth, although United have played one more match. The Reds’ upcoming fixtures provide a valuable opportunity to climb the table, with three of the next five matches against teams in the bottom half of the standings.
Conversely, Chelsea face a tougher schedule against Arsenal, Aston Villa, Newcastle United, Manchester City, and Manchester United, a stretch likely to test their consistency and potentially cost points. Meanwhile, Manchester United have a comparatively lighter run of fixtures, but Liverpool still have a chance to capitalize when they travel to Old Trafford in May.
Securing a top-five finish is widely seen as sufficient to guarantee a Champions League spot, and Liverpool’s current momentum gives them a strong platform to challenge their direct rivals for European qualification. With key players performing in clutch moments, the Reds are well-positioned to make a final push toward the continental stage.
Conclusion
Alexis Mac Allister’s injury-time winner against Nottingham Forest not only earned Liverpool three crucial points but also set a Premier League record for the most late winners in a single season. The dramatic victory highlights Liverpool’s resilience, determination, and ability to deliver in high-pressure moments, even when their performance on the pitch is far from perfect.
As the season progresses, Liverpool must maintain focus and consistency, particularly in matches against top-tier opponents. With a favorable run of fixtures and the squad hitting form at key moments, The Reds are well-placed to secure a top-five finish and a coveted Champions League spot. Mac Allister’s decisive strike may well be a symbol of Liverpool’s growing tenacity and a harbinger of further late-season heroics to come.
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