Corner Controversy: Salah's Assist Stirs Racism Debate in Premier League Showdown
12 February 2026
Match Recap
In a thrilling midweek encounter from the 26th round of the Premier League, Liverpool edged Sunderland 1-0.
The goal came from defender Virgil van Dijk, rising highest to head in a corner brilliantly delivered by Mohamed Salah, securing a dramatic win for the Reds.
With this decisive contribution, Salah's Premier League tally rose to 93 assists, surpassing Steven Gerrard's 92 and etching his name into league lore.
Controversy and Reactions
However, the achievement did not pass without debate. Renowned analyst Aly McQuist questioned the assist on TNT, asking whether a corner should count as an official assist.
McQuist's remarks drew swift criticism, with many accusing him of bias or racism, arguing that the objection appeared only after Salah began consistently delivering corners for Liverpool, and the debate quickly spread beyond studio walls to social media, fans' forums, and column inches across football outlets. Critics urged equal treatment of all players and noted how corner routines have become a vital team asset today.
Two final quips aside, the sport keeps turning the screws on controversy, as fans debate the math of assists and the meaning of fairness on the pitch.