Liverpool Overcome Early Struggles to Defeat eintracht Frankfurt in Promising System Debut
Liverpool secured a victory over Eintracht Frankfurt, showcasing both early challenges and encouraging progress in their new tactical system. Despite conceding an early goal following a Frankfurt counter-attack, the Reds rallied to win with goals from five different players.
The match highlighted Liverpool’s defensive vulnerabilities, having now conceded 18 goals in 13 games this season – a notable increase compared to the seven goals conceded at the same stage last season. They haven’t recorded a clean sheet in their last eight matches. However, Liverpool demonstrably improved throughout the game, notably with their high-pressing approach in the second half.
Former Liverpool full-back stephen Warnock acknowledged the growing pains inherent in implementing a new system, telling BBC Sport, “There is always going to be little flaws in a new system, it’s not going to be flawless straight away.” He added,”Away from home as well,it is difficult to adapt at the start of a game,but they soon took control and were cozy in the way they played.” Warnock specifically praised the performances of Dominik szoboszlai and Curtis Jones, noting the importance of understanding defensive responsibilities within the new framework. “They learnt as the game went on…sometimes it is just a case of being told again that that’s your position,and hold where you are.”
The game also offered a glimpse of a potential future partnership between forwards Isak and Ekitike, despite the duo only playing the first 45 minutes together.Former manchester United striker Andy Cole expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “I like it. They are both of a good age, bought for the future. I can see them playing as a two, because if they do they it will ultimately cause chaos. They both have the pace, ability and are prepared to take players on.”
Ekitike, who scored during the match, appears to be thriving since his summer arrival, now with six goals for the Reds. owen Hargreaves of TNT Sports lauded Ekitike’s performance, declaring, “I thought Ekitike was the best player…He has to be a guaranteed starter now. He is everywhere now. He is a pure player, a lovely football player.”
