Ibrahima Konaté: Anfield’s Colossus
Dominating Defence
Sometimes I like to write a few words relating to various moments in the respective game, without even mentioning today’s man of the match I have selected for that contest. This piece, however, will immediately recognise what a powerful and dominant display was delivered this evening by the giant Frenchman, Ibrahima Konaté, the man who bullied his way to the award.
Ibou Konate was incredible today. Second best CB in the league after the last who plays next to him.
If we had anything resembling an attack, we'd have beaten them today.
— Dave Hendrick (@HendrickD82) December 23, 2023
Against an attacking side that can look so effortlessly dangerous at times, the pace and intensity of Mikel Arteta’s vibrant attacking side will continue to demoralise many high-ranking defence throughout the Premier League. The ongoing hybrid endeavour (being undertaken by Liverpool Football Club) means that such a well-oiled offensive unit can often cause damage from varying angles and means, until such a system is met with a brilliant defensive group, that is.
Though, with Jürgen Klopp’s structured formation, the superb pairing of Virgil van Dijk and Ibou, have so much world-class physicality that they can make the most treacherous and open backlines seem like a low block. As the likes of Gabriel Martinelli, Gabriel Jesus, and Bukayo Saka, caused fear through their engagements, they were closed off time and time again by the twin towers of Anfield. The sheer size and strength of this former RB Leipzig centre-back must be an intimidating sight for his opponents, let alone the speed and intensity he brings when looking to disarm them. If ever there was a model of what modern-day defence requires, then this display would be it.
The Towering Presence of Ibou
The hybrid system of play would have been abandoned many months ago, if not for the elite-level attributes of Klopp’s defensive group. Whether it be his captain, today’s man of the match, Joël Matip, Joe Gomez, or Jarell Quansah, all these players have performed superbly since the beginning of the 2023/24 campaign. What must be said is that today’s overall showing by the reds’ French defender, Ibou, may well be the most complete and dominant showing yet, especially given the level of opposition.
If any silverware is to be won this season, it surely must be noted that all achievements will be due to the output of Alisson Becker and his central defenders. I cannot see how the rest of the side would rally and overcome if the rearguard assets were not having such a remarkable season. Though we all worry about the injuries to some of our players, it is still vital to marvel at the heroic displays in red, especially one today.
https://twitter.com/anfieldindex/status/1738644847957831689?s=46&t=rxgukmqdoXc4muVFLSx2EQ
Mastering the Midfield
This evening, Liverpool should have won the game and enjoyed Christmas Day whilst top of the table. Fatigue and lack of depth in key areas stopped the reds from taking all three points at Anfield, whereas the man of the match showing by Ibrahima Konaté, more than stopped Arsenal from taking more than one.
A Tied Christmas at Anfield
The hunt is still on.
Pre-match prediction
Liverpool 3 – 2 Arsenal