Liverpool widens lead at the top of the Premier League.

Liverpool widened their lead at the top of the Premier League to four points after Diogo Jota’s decisive goal secured a 1-0 win against Crystal Palace on Saturday.

Arne Slot, who has now claimed victory in nine of his first ten matches since replacing Jürgen Klopp, expressed frustration as his team allowed Crystal Palace to pressure them in the latter stages, despite the Eagles still searching for their first win of the season.

Liverpool’s victory came at a price, though, with goalkeeper Alisson Becker forced to leave the field due to injury in the final moments. His absence could be critical as Liverpool faces a challenging series of fixtures after the international break.

“We should have put the game beyond doubt with how much control we had,” said Slot. “If we had scored a second, it would have crushed their morale. But with just a 1-0 lead, their fans kept believing in a result, even though I felt we were the stronger side throughout.”

This defeat keeps Crystal Palace in the relegation zone, having earned only three points from their first seven matches.

Slot’s strong start at Liverpool has been impressive, with his team becoming the first under a new manager to win eight of the first nine games, including a 2-0 Champions League triumph over Bologna earlier in the week.

However, Slot was quick to acknowledge that the toughest challenges are still ahead, with high-profile clashes against Chelsea, Arsenal, Aston Villa, and Manchester City looming on the horizon.

“We’ve done well to win these games, but now the real test comes. We need to prove ourselves against the bigger teams,” Slot added. “Sadly, I don’t think Alisson will be available based on how he came off the pitch.”

At Selhurst Park, Liverpool showcased both their attacking prowess and defensive grit. Although they dominated the first half, they couldn’t extend their lead, but managed to secure their fifth clean sheet in seven league matches.

Crystal Palace had a brief moment of celebration when Eddie Nketiah found the net within the first 30 seconds, but the goal was disallowed as he was offside when receiving Ismaila Sarr’s cross.

As Liverpool prepares for a tougher stretch of games, Slot will need his squad to step up, particularly with the absence of key players like Alisson.