Liverpool maintained their place at the top of the Premier League table after Mohamed Salah’s dramatic stoppage-time penalty secured a 1-0 victory over Burnley at Turf Moor. The 95th-minute strike handed Arne Slot’s men a crucial win, but debate quickly followed regarding whether the penalty should have stood.
The incident came after Jeremie Frimpong’s cross struck the outstretched arm of Hannibal Mejbri, prompting referee Michael Oliver to award a spot-kick. While Salah calmly dispatched his effort past Martin Dubravka, replays appeared to show Frimpong stepping into the box before the ball was struck, leading to questions over encroachment and whether the penalty should have been retaken.
Jamie Carragher, commentating for Sky Sports, branded Mejbri’s handball “brain dead,” sparking criticism from some fans who felt the decision was overly harsh on Burnley. “Burnley don’t deserve that,” Carragher said. “It’s a moment of madness.”
In response to the controversy, former PGMOL and FIFA official Keith Hackett offered clarification. Speaking to Football Insider, Hackett admitted he was initially surprised Oliver allowed the goal without VAR intervention, but highlighted a recent law change that explains the decision.
According to the updated rules, a penalty may only be retaken if attacking encroachment directly impacts the goalkeeper. Hackett explained:
“He went into the box, which normally would mean a decision change, but under the new rule, the referee must judge the impact on the goalkeeper. Oliver decided Frimpong’s movement didn’t affect the keeper, so the goal was allowed.”
Hackett further stressed that Salah’s penalty was legitimate under the current laws, since Frimpong’s encroachment had no bearing on Dubravka’s ability to attempt a save.
Liverpool, who have already developed a reputation this season for late winners — scoring decisive goals in the 88th minute against Bournemouth, the 100th against Newcastle, the 83rd against Arsenal, and now the 95th at Burnley — continue to show resilience, though not always fluency. Despite over £400 million invested in new talent such as Alexander Isak, Hugo Ekitike, and Florian Wirtz, Arne Slot’s side has yet to fully convince.
The Reds now shift focus to Europe, preparing for a heavyweight Champions League opener against Diego Simeone’s Atletico Madrid on Wednesday. Their next Premier League assignment comes on September 30, when they welcome Everton to Anfield for a hotly anticipated Merseyside derby.