Key Tactical Insights from Liverpool’s 2-0 Win Against Aston Villa | OneFootball

Liverpool Move Five Points Clear with Victory over Aston Villa

Liverpool edged past Aston Villa 2-0 in a rare 8pm Saturday kick-off under the lights at Anfield. With Brighton’s surprise win over Manchester City, Liverpool’s triumph opened a crucial five-point gap at the top of the Premier League. It was a tight game, with Aston Villa proving why they’ve become such formidable opponents under Unai Emery. This season, Villa have been one of the most consistent sides, challenging even the most seasoned teams.

I missed out on my usual Saturday night in Liverpool — which would typically involve some Jack and Coke and maybe a singalong with a live band — but watching this game was worth the change. Plus, with the international break coming up, there’ll be plenty of time to make up for it. Now, let’s dive into the tactical depths of this hard-earned victory.

Tactical Rotation Sets the Tone

In line with his rotation strategy, manager Arne Slot opted to bring Andy Robertson back into the starting line-up, resting Kostas Tsimikas after three starts in eight days. Darwin Núñez also returned, replacing Cody Gakpo after being benched in the Champions League clash with Bayer Leverkusen.

Liverpool began cautiously, but they took the lead in the first half with a classic counter-attack.

After an Aston Villa corner, Virgil van Dijk latched onto a loose ball, unleashing a pinpoint long ball to Mohamed Salah, all without lifting his head. Villa’s backline was alarmingly high, with only John McGinn and Leon Bailey left behind. Van Dijk’s pass landed perfectly at Salah’s feet, keeping Bailey at bay. A foul on Salah should’ve warranted a card, but David Coote’s leniency shone through once again. Nevertheless, Núñez coolly rounded Emiliano Martínez, slotting in the opener before the Kop — a moment of sheer quality in the counter.

This counter-attack, orchestrated to perfection, highlighted Liverpool’s ruthlessness on the break and Villa’s vulnerability after set pieces. The high line that Villa employed would come back to haunt them later in the game.

Liverpool’s Defensive Solidity and Gravenberch’s Game-Changing Impact

Liverpool’s second goal, though not directly from a set-piece situation, also took advantage of Villa’s high line. Salah pounced on a defensive error in the 84th minute, extending Liverpool’s lead and sealing the points.

One standout in defence was Ryan Gravenberch, who proved instrumental in thwarting Villa’s attempts, especially during a critical moment when Jacob Ramsey seemed poised to unleash a clear shot. A miscommunication between Trent Alexander-Arnold and Ibrahima Konaté had left space on Ramsey’s left. Gravenberch, though a distance away, reacted swiftly, blocking the shot and neutralising the threat with his exceptional anticipation and quickness. The Dutchman’s defensive work has become a hallmark of Liverpool’s backline this season.

Gravenberch’s ability to recover the ball across various zones of the pitch was crucial. He not only pressed effectively in the left half-space but also regained possession within Liverpool’s box on three occasions. His performance was key in ensuring Villa’s set-piece strategy didn’t yield the desired results.

Núñez and Salah: Persistent Threat In Attack

Núñez’s shot map was reminiscent of his previous seasons with the club, characterised by his relentless efforts in front of goal. He registered six shots in total, with two coming from within the most dangerous areas of the penalty box. Among his three big chances, he managed to convert one, showcasing both his threat and his need to improve on conversion.

Salah’s shot map throughout the season has demonstrated his ability to find prime shooting positions, primarily from the right half-space and central areas within the penalty box. Despite his reputation for curling efforts, this season, the “Egyptian King” has refined his shot selection, making him even more formidable. Salah’s form since the season opener against Ipswich has been phenomenal, providing Liverpool with a reliable goal threat.

Liverpool’s Balanced Attack and Defensive Concerns

Despite Liverpool’s success, Villa managed to create five big chances, mostly from set-pieces. It’s a worrying trend for Liverpool, exposing a vulnerability that top teams could exploit. Caoimhin Kelleher, stepping in for Alisson Becker, delivered an outstanding performance. His agility and shot-stopping prowess reaffirmed Liverpool’s luck in having two world-class goalkeepers.

Villa’s open-play threat was limited, yet Ramsey’s chance highlighted an area Liverpool must tighten up on. The set-piece coach role remains a priority for Liverpool if they’re to sustain their title challenge. Defensive organisation, especially post-set pieces, remains an Achilles’ heel.

Liverpool’s expected threat (xT) zonemap illustrated their well-rounded attacking approach. They exploited the half-spaces effectively, particularly down the left, but also created significant threat on the right wing. This balance was essential in outmanoeuvring Villa’s defensive set-up and ensured Liverpool retained control of key attacking areas.

The xT player ranking further underscores van Dijk’s contribution, with his visionary pass to Salah for the opener inflating his numbers. Alexander-Arnold was equally impactful before injury curtailed his game, offering a steady supply of dangerous balls into the final third.

Win with Scope For Improvement

Ultimately, Liverpool deserved their three points against a strong Aston Villa side. While Villa’s set-piece prowess tested Liverpool’s defensive resolve, the Reds’ cohesive play and clinical counter-attacks made the difference. The five-point cushion over Manchester City is a promising boost, as Liverpool aim for a successful second half of the season. However, they’ll need to address their set-piece fragility if they’re to fend off other top challengers.

With the international break looming, I’m looking forward to returning to my usual Saturday night haunts. After all, Premier League action will resume soon enough, with Liverpool set to face Southampton away, followed by a tantalising clash with Manchester City at Anfield. These matches could prove decisive as Liverpool chase down their title ambitions.