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Liverpool Influence Shapes Hungary’s Win Over Armenia

Hungary’s 2-0 victory over Armenia may not live long in highlight reels, but for those tracking Liverpool’s growing international footprint, it was a compelling case study. Dominik Szoboszlai captained his national side with authority, while fellow Liverpool talent Milos Kerkez quietly reinforced his growing reputation on the left flank.

Their performances were not spectacular, they were measured, tactical and mature, the exact brand of football Arne Slot has drilled into Liverpool since taking charge.

Szoboszlai Leads Through Adaptation

Dominik Szoboszlai carried the armband once again and, by his own admission, the night did not immediately go to plan. Speaking to M4 Sport, he said, “We talked about being patient, we would have chances, and we did have chances.” He added, “It didn’t work out in the first half, but we managed to score goals in the second.”

Rather than forcing the game, Szoboszlai adjusted his role in real time. “I had to pay attention to the fact that if Daniel Lukacs and Zsombor Gruber went somewhere, I had to move to the other position.” His final reflection summed up Hungary’s growing cohesion. “The three of us played together like this for the first time, but we complemented each other quite well,” he added.

Photo: IMAGO

Nemzeti Sport awarded him a 6 out of 10, not exactly glowing but indicative of a player judged by elite standards. His pressing improved after the break, his passing tempo quickened and suddenly Armenia’s low block was no longer comfortable.

Kerkez Quietly Effective on the Left

Milos Kerkez did not produce a headline-grabbing moment, yet his consistency remained evident. Reports in Hungary described him as “more active after the break, fighting for corners,” while noting that “the energetic play seen in the Premier League was missing” early on. It was a familiar Liverpool trend, a slow start shifting into total control around the hour mark.

Liverpool Chemistry Across Borders

What stood out most was the connection between Szoboszlai and Kerkez. Their combinations on the left mirrored movements seen weekly at Anfield, suggesting that club chemistry is increasingly spilling into international duty.

For Liverpool supporters, that is significant. Two players who arrived at different times are beginning to think at the same tempo. Slot will not complain about rhythm being sharpened on international breaks rather than dulled.

Hungary Benefit, Liverpool Profit

Hungary’s rise to second in their World Cup qualifying group adds further context. These are not just two Liverpool players doing a shift abroad, they are central pillars of a nation targeting automatic qualification.

Club managers often fear the international calendar. In this case, Slot may welcome more of it.

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