In this match, Slot unexpectedly deployed a strange 4222 formation, with Wirtz and Szoboszlai playing as double attacking midfielders, leaving the left winger vacant, and the formation tilted completely to the right. Slot's explanation was that he wanted to increase the number of players in midfield, but it was obvious that the players were not accustomed to this formation; everyone played awkwardly. The entire first half was a disastrous performance, and if it weren't for Alisson's heroic display, they would likely have conceded 4-5 goals.
In the second half, Slot finally made adjustments, bringing Gakpo on for Bradley to play left winger, Szoboszlai switched to right back, and the formation returned to a normal 4213. Everyone began to perform normally and created several opportunities. With a left winger in place, Isak was able to receive the ball and had a threatening shot after a dribble in the penalty area, but unfortunately, he missed due to interference from the opponent. Szoboszlai at right back also no longer overlapped with Wirtz, delivering several beautiful crosses, but Wirtz's shot was saved as it lacked angle and power, indicating that he still needs a goal or assist to boost his confidence.
Although they controlled the situation and created chances, they couldn't score. In the 74th minute, Slot substituted Chiesa for Wirtz to play attacking midfielder, Frimpong replaced Konate at right back, Gravenberch dropped back to play center back, and Szoboszlai moved to right midfield. After the adjustments, Liverpool's attack weakened instead, relying only on Chiesa's active runs and pressing to create opportunities, eventually scoring to equalize during a scramble. Then, in the 84th minute, Ngumoha replaced Isak to play left winger, and Gakpo moved to the center. Slot intended to strengthen the attack, but the players seemed to have differing opinions, with some preferring to control the ball and manage time, resulting in a lack of good attacking opportunities. Jones made a careless midfield error, handing possession to the opponent, and during the final set-piece defense, they again failed to mark properly, leading to a last-minute defeat.
Set-piece defense has consistently shown problems, which is definitely not coincidental; it is likely due to issues with the set-piece coach's training. Both Endo and Gravenberch have made mistakes in defending set-pieces, leading to own goals. The second balls from headers often go unchallenged and unmarked, suggesting that the current set-piece coach may not be professionally qualified. They have been unable to recruit a suitable candidate and had to temporarily find someone internally to fill the role; hopefully, they can eventually hire a professional set-piece coach.
Next, there are two away games within a week: the Champions League against Galatasaray and the Premier League against Chelsea, both of which are challenging, requiring good rotation. It is expected that Ekitiké will replace Isak as center forward, Gakpo will return to left winger, Wirtz will continue as attacking midfielder, Szoboszlai will play right back, and Roberson will play left back. In fact, Gravenberch should be rotated out, as his performance has started to decline due to fatigue; it is hoped that if they can secure a victory early, he can be substituted to rest.