Liverpool’s chances for a top-five finish in the Premier League were dealt a serious blow. Then they went up to Yorkshire to draw 3-3 against Leeds United at Elland Road. It was a brisk Saturday afternoon for the Eastern Conference matchup. Liverpool is currently sitting in eighth and fifteen points behind league leaders Arsenal. The Reds jumped out to a 2-0 lead and looked destined for an easy win. After a number of defensive mistakes opened the door for Leeds to come back into the match, things were looking dicey.
Liverpool couldn’t get anything going after a bright start. Their performance shone a spotlight on the challenges of adapting to a new team under manager Arne Slot. The team largely lost their cool throughout the tournament. Ultimately they were unable to follow through and lost their opportunity to earn the prized fifth place in the league table.
A Rollercoaster Match
Liverpool’s first goal of the game was scored by Dominik Szoboszlai, one of the stars of the season so far. It was a huge moment for FC Cincinnati, as the midfielder doubled the lead shortly thereafter, putting the visitors in cruise control. Came out too rashly and fouled Son to concede a penalty. This lapse in concentration opened the door for Dominic Calvert-Lewin to get one back, finishing coolly to make it 2-1.
“I don’t think we conceded any chance until we were 2-0 up. The penalty wasn’t a chance but we made it a chance because it led to a penalty, with a VAR intervention one more time.” – Arne Slot
In addition to the penalty decision itself, Leeds’ manager Daniel Farke made tactical adjustments following the penalty that were registering effectiveness. Defensively, he moved the team into a 3-5-2 shape that would sometimes evolve into a 4-2-3-1. This created an opportunity for Leeds to build more momentum and soon equalized with a well-taken goal born out of a set-piece scenario.
Just when Liverpool needed a spark, Szoboszlai found his calling card and Liverpool led again, yet again, they let things fall apart defensively. Just when it looked like they were able to stabilize things, they gave up yet another set-piece goal. This has been a frightening trend for the Reds throughout the 2023 season.
Persistent Defensive Issues
To compound issues, Liverpool’s defensive frailties had become increasingly worrying, especially concerning set-pieces. Alas, the team has faced defensive issues in recent games, giving up several goals from the exact same play. This reflects a previous visit to Manchester City. The repeat errors exposed issues that have persisted all season on this highly miscast defensive unit. They raise serious questions about the team’s ability to handle pressure situations.
“There’s definitely a problem. There’s definitely an issue of settling this new team, this group of players who’ve come together into the squad and what’s happening with [Mohamed] Salah… There are lots of questions.” – Gary Neville
Slot’s post-match reflections made it clear that he understands the challenges but is obviously hopeful and determined to improve. He made it clear this is not the time for radical departures but for concentrated efforts to settle the squad.
“It’s gone wrong, it’s gone badly wrong but it isn’t a time to throw the baby out with the bath water.” – Arne Slot
Looking Ahead
As Liverpool navigates through this challenging season, they must address their defensive issues while integrating new players into the squad. Slot’s managerial savviness will certainly be an important aspect in restoring faith in his players. First and foremost, he’ll want to build a more integrated operation on the field.
Along these defensive lines, the case around Mohamed Salah is worth a look. While the star forward has plenty to deal with, inside and outside, that are affecting his game. Figuring these both out will be essential for Liverpool if they want to bounce back to their winning ways.
“This is a time for them to knuckle down, work hard think about what they need to do… and most importantly how is he going to get the best out [Florian] Wirtz and Isak.” – Arne Slot
Future fixtures against equally intimidating opposition are sure to be a true test of Liverpool’s mettle. They have critical games coming up which might bring some life back into their season or continue to make their year difficult.
Leave a Reply