Another Tight Win with a Promising Process for Liverpool
Liverpool continued their impressive form under Arne Slot, securing a narrow 1-0 win against Crystal Palace in the Premier League. With nine wins out of ten matches, it’s been the best start any Liverpool manager has ever had. The Reds began the match with intensity, pressing high and asserting dominance, but as the game progressed, they struggled to kill it off with a second goal. Things could have taken a sharp turn when Alisson Becker pulled up with a hamstring injury, forcing third-choice goalkeeper Vítězlav Jaroš to make his senior debut.
Despite a few nervy moments, Liverpool held on to claim the all-important three points, keeping them at the top of the table heading into the international break. I had the pleasure of watching this tense match unfold from a tapas bar in Barcelona, where I initially had eight large screens all to myself!
But as the bar filled up, seven of them swiftly switched to Espanyol vs Real Mallorca in La Liga. I was left with just one screen, but I wasn’t alone – Pedro, a newly-made local friend, shared in the nail-biting tension, while we were both distracted by some of the most mouth-watering tapas I’ve ever tasted.
Early Dominance and Tsimikas’ Impact
From the outset, Liverpool were in control. At times, it seemed like every outfield player was camped in Crystal Palace’s half, illustrating the team’s desire to control the match from the first whistle. Kostas Tsimikas was instrumental, threading a penetrative pass through to Cody Gakpo, which led to what could be called a “hockey assist.” Alexis Mac Allister and Curtis Jones took up aggressive positions in the Palace half, drawing defenders and opening space for Diogo Jota in the centre.
Jota’s movement in the box, as ever, was razor-sharp. Gakpo’s first-time low cross found him perfectly, and the Portuguese forward slotted in what would turn out to be the only goal of the match. His clever blind-side run caught the Palace defenders off guard, the kind of intelligent movement that strikers thrive on – slipping out of a defender’s sight just long enough to pounce.
As I watched from my corner in the tapas bar, with only one screen left showing the match, I couldn’t help but notice that the locals were far more invested in the La Liga game, where Espanyol managed to edge out Real Mallorca 2-1. Still, I was too focused on Jota’s brilliance to pay much attention to the Spanish league.
Tactical Focus: Left-Side Attack and a Quieter Day for Salah
Liverpool’s tactical approach in this match was clear. The team predominantly attacked down the left-hand side with Tsimikas and Gakpo, exploiting the space between Palace’s right-back and centre-back. The passes into the penalty area and Liverpool’s Expected Threat heatmap highlight this focus, with much of the threat being generated from the left half-space.
It was a quieter game for Mohamed Salah and Trent Alexander-Arnold, who found themselves more on the periphery as Liverpool chose to bypass the right flank. Slot’s tactical blueprint, however, was clear and well-executed.
Konaté’s Standout Performance and Defensive Solidity
On the defensive end, Ibrahima Konaté had another stellar game, continuing his fine form this season. Alongside Virgil van Dijk, he’s forming what could be considered the best centre-back partnership in England, if not the world. Konaté’s defensive work-rate was immense, as shown by his ball recoveries across the pitch.
From my spot in the bar, Pedro and I were equally impressed by Konaté’s ability to anticipate and snuff out any danger. Between tapas bites and sips of Rioja, we couldn’t help but marvel at how well Liverpool’s defence is functioning, especially given the challenge that Palace’s speedy forwards usually pose. Even with the occasional nervy moment, particularly after Alisson’s injury, the defensive unit remained calm and composed.
Jota’s Workrate and Palace’s Limited Threat
Beyond his goal, Jota’s off-the-ball work was invaluable. His pressing and positioning helped disrupt Palace’s attempts to build from the back, showing exactly why Slot values him so highly. Curtis Jones, stepping in for Dominik Szoboszlai, also had an impactful game, proving that he can slot into various midfield roles as needed.
In terms of attacking threat, Palace didn’t offer much. Their best chance came from a header, easily saved by Alisson, and Eberechi Eze had a shot saved by Jaroš after a poor finish. Otherwise, Liverpool’s control and structure limited Palace to speculative efforts.
Meanwhile, Liverpool had plenty of chances to extend their lead, with six shots coming from prime scoring areas inside the box. This illustrates the repeatable process of their attacking philosophy, one that creates high-quality chances. While some efforts – particularly from Szoboszlai in the second half – were speculative, the team is clearly well-drilled and cohesive in attack.
Momentum Building But Tough Tests Ahead
As the final whistle blew and Pedro gave me a knowing nod, it was clear that this win, while narrow, was another significant step for Liverpool in this Premier League campaign. Despite some challenging moments, the team is in excellent form, building momentum and sitting at the top of the table.
The upcoming fixtures will provide much sterner tests, with Chelsea, Arsenal, Bayer Leverkusen, Real Madrid, and Manchester City all looming. December will likely prove crucial in determining whether this Liverpool side can truly challenge for the titles their fans so desperately crave.
