Liverpool's Comeback Win Over Eintracht Frankfurt: What We Learned

Strategic Insights -

Liverpool put an emphatic end to their losing streak with a 5-1 win over Eintracht Frankfurt in the Champions League. Despite struggling to find their rhythm in the first half, Arne Slot's side came from a goal down to secure a comfortable victory. Mohamed Salah was left on the bench until the 78th minute, and the decision to rest him has sparked debate. Hugo Ekitike, who only departed Frankfurt in the summer, made a mockery of the decision to place him among the substitutes in Liverpool's previous two matches, scoring a cool finish on the break to even up the scores after 35 minutes.

Key Takeaways:

  • Mohamed Salah was rested for the first time in the Champions League this season, and his absence has sparked debate about his position in the team.
  • Hugo Ekitike's goal and performance have made a strong case for him to start in Liverpool's next match against Brentford, particularly if Salah doesn't play.
  • Liverpool's defensive issues are a concern, having conceded 28 goals in their last 18 games and failing to keep a clean sheet in any of their Champions League matches so far this season.
  • The team's attacking play still lacks consistency, but the return of Ibrahima Konate to the team has provided a boost.
  • Jeremy Frimpong's injury has left Liverpool with a defensive problem, and Milos Kerkez may have a fight on his hands to regain his spot in the team.
  • Virgil van Dijk's goal and the team's corner threat have been crucial in their comeback win.

Statistics:

  • Mohamed Salah has not started a Champions League match since last season, and his absence has been felt in the team's performance.
  • Hugo Ekitike has scored two goals in three appearances for Liverpool, demonstrating his clinical value and importance to the team.
  • Liverpool have conceded 28 goals in their last 18 games, with only two clean sheets in that time.
  • The team's Champions League record this season includes:

+ 3 matches played

+ 1 win, 1 draw, and 1 loss

+ 5 goals scored

+ 6 goals conceded

  • Liverpool's current winless streak has been ended at 3 matches.

Sources:

  • Mirror Football article: "Liverpool end losing streak with 5-1 win over Eintracht Frankfurt", September 2023
  • TNT Sports: Arne Slot interview, September 2023
  • Sky Sports: Mohamed Salah rested for Liverpool's Champions League match, September 2023
  • Getty Images: Liverpool vs. Eintracht Frankfurt Champions League match photos, September 2023