The real reason why Florian Wirtz’s goal against Fulham was allowed

After opening 2026 with a 0-0 draw against Leeds, Liverpool were held to another 2-2 draw by Fulham. The hosts took the lead in the first half through Harry Wilson, before Liverpool equalised in the 57th minute via Wirtz and then went ahead 2-1 thanks to Cody Gakpo. In the final minute, Harrison Reed struck from outside the box to secure a 2-2 draw.

The most controversial moment among the four goals was Wirtz’s equaliser. The German midfielder received the ball inside the box from Conor Bradley and finished with his left foot. However, he did not celebrate with his teammates after scoring.

Moments later, the assistant referee raised his flag for offside. VAR then reviewed the situation and ruled that Wirtz was onside due to Kenny Tete’s toe, allowing the goal to stand. Only then did Wirtz celebrate the equaliser with his teammates.

Liverpool fan and reporter Ian Doyle commented on the decision: "Can only assume that Wirtz goal was all about when the ball was actually released because the replays we've seen don't exactly make it clear he was onside".

This was Wirtz’s second goal for Liverpool and his second in the Premier League. He opened his account against Wolves on 27 December, ending a run of 15 matches without a goal or assist, although he continued to contribute to Liverpool’s overall play.

Wirtz joined Liverpool last summer from Bayer Leverkusen in a €116m deal. After a slow start, he is beginning to settle alongside his teammates, using his intelligence and technical ability to emerge as a new creative force following Trent Alexander-Arnold’s departure.

Despite the disappointing result against Fulham, Liverpool must now turn their attention to the upcoming clash with Arsenal, scheduled for 9 January at the Emirates Stadium. Four days later, they will return to Anfield to face Barnsley in the third round of the FA Cup.