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Corner Controversy: Salah's Assist Stirs Racism Debate in Premier League Showdown

12 February 2026

Corner Controversy: Salah's Assist Stirs Racism Debate in Premier League Showdown
Van Dijk heads Salah's corner home to seal Liverpool's win.

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.

Author

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Emma Amme

I am Emma Amme, an English sports journalist born in 1998. Passionate about astronomy, contemporary dance, and handcrafted woodworking, I share my sensitive view of sports.

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the match result?

Liverpool won 1-0 against Sunderland in a Premier League clash.

Whose header sealed the win and from what pass?

Virgil van Dijk headed home from a corner taken by Mohamed Salah.

Which analyst commented on the counting of assists?

Aly McQuist spoke on TNT questioning corner-based assists.

What controversy arose from Salah's assist?

Pundits and fans debated whether corner assists should count, with some accusing bias or racism in the criticism.