It’s an unwanted record that has Anfield reeling. Following a shocking 2–1 defeat to bottom-of-the-table Wolves on Tuesday, March 3, 2026, Liverpool have officially become the first team in Premier League history to lose five games in a single campaign due to goals scored in the 90th minute or later.
Just a year ago, under Jurgen Klopp, this squad was famous for "finding a way." Under Arne Slot, the narrative has flipped: they are now the league's most vulnerable team when the clock hits red.
The 2025/26 "Heartbreak" Trail: 5 Games, 5 Last-Gasp Blows
The defeat at Molineux was the tipping point. After Mohamed Salah appeared to have rescued a point in the 83rd minute, Wolves midfielder André struck a deflected winner in the 94th minute, sealing Liverpool’s fate.
➖ Palace: 90+7'
➖ Chelsea: 90+5'
➖ Bournemouth: 90+5'
➖ Man City: 90+3'
➖ Wolves: 90+4'
"It’s the same old story," a frustrated Arne Slot remarked post-match. "We dominate possession, we create more, but we are losing far too many games because we cannot manage the final seconds."
Why Is It Happening? The "Slot-Fase" Paradox
Ironically, at Feyenoord, Slot’s teams were known for the "Slotfase"—a Dutch pun on the "final phase" where they frequently scored late winners. At Liverpool, the opposite is true. Analysts have pointed to three main factors:
Tactical Over-Extension: In their hunt for winners (Liverpool have actually scored 7 late winners themselves this season), Slot often substitutes defenders for attackers, leaving the backline exposed to counters.
The "Bottom-Club" Curse: Liverpool are the first reigning champions since Chelsea (2017) to lose to the league’s bottom-placed side. The lack of clinical finishing in open play is forcing them to chase games they should have already put to bed.
Defensive Fragility: The "deflection" factor has been cruel—both the City and Wolves winners came via deflections off Liverpool defenders—but the frequency suggests a lack of defensive positioning in high-pressure moments.
The Verdict: Liverpool are currently a "Jekyll and Hyde" team. They lead the league in late winners scored (7) but also lead the history books in late winners conceded (5). To save their season and stay in the Champions League hunt, Slot must find a way to close the door when the 90th minute arrives.