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Liverpool Triumph Over Bologna in Champions League Group Stage

In an exciting UEFA Champions League group stage match, Liverpool secured a 2-0 victory over Bologna at Anfield, extending their excellent European form under new manager Arne Slot. With the team’s lineup relatively predictable, except for a few tweaks, the game was a chance to witness some intriguing dynamics between key players such as Mohamed Salah, Dominik Szoboszlai, and Ryan Gravenberch.

Liverpool’s Line-up and Szoboszlai’s Growing Influence

Guy Drinkel, speaking on Anfield Index’s Euro Incision podcast with Nina Kauser, highlighted how the team selection largely met expectations, except for a slight surprise at left-back, where Kostas Tsimikas did not start despite Andrew Robertson having endured a heavy tackle the previous weekend. Drinkel also commented on Szoboszlai’s performance: “I thought he was phenomenal, and our best player to be honest, though Mo [Salah] got a goal and an assist.” Szoboszlai’s immense work rate, particularly his pressing, was emphasised, with Drinkel adding, “the running power is just something the fanbase probably takes for granted.”

Photo: IMAGO

Szoboszlai’s connection with the rest of the midfield was crucial to Liverpool’s dominance in the game, and his link-up play with Salah caught attention. Drinkel noted how Szoboszlai was key to the flow between midfield and attack, even when striker Darwin Núñez struggled to make an impact. While he did not score, Szoboszlai’s influence was critical in Liverpool’s well-balanced performance.

Mohamed Salah: Record Breaker Again

The night, however, belonged to Mohamed Salah, who continues to break records with his characteristic consistency. His goal in front of the Kop made him the highest-scoring African in the Champions League, overtaking Didier Drogba. Drinkel, clearly impressed, said, “It was just a vintage Mo Salah finish in front of the Kop… another day, another year, another Mo Salah record broken.” Despite Salah not having his “cleanest game,” as Drinkel remarked, he managed both a goal and an assist, proving once again why he is indispensable to Liverpool’s attack.

Salah’s evolution under Arne Slot was also a focal point of discussion. Drinkel described how Salah’s game has shifted from being primarily about goals to becoming a complete footballer, contributing assists and pressing with renewed vigour. This development mirrors the demands of Slot, who, according to Drinkel, sets “the bar so high” for his players, even after such a successful spell under Jürgen Klopp.

Bologna’s Fightback and Liverpool’s Defensive Stability

While Liverpool appeared in control early on, Bologna grew into the game, showing resilience that made the Reds uncomfortable at times. As Drinkel observed, “Bologna really grew into it… for 20 odd minutes they had us camped in our half.” Yet, Liverpool’s defensive structure held firm, led by Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahim Konaté. Drinkel pointed out, however, that Liverpool’s tendency to play out from the back could verge on “arrogant,” a point that could become crucial against more challenging opposition in future fixtures.

Despite these periods of Bologna pressure, Liverpool were able to maintain their composure and secure a clean sheet. Szoboszlai’s defensive work rate, alongside Gravenberch, provided necessary support in midfield transitions, and the overall performance ensured the team’s defensive fragility, seen in past seasons, was not exposed.

Photo: IMAGO

Slot’s Impact on Liverpool

Arne Slot’s managerial impact has been significant since replacing Jürgen Klopp in May 2024. Drinkel praised Slot’s ambition, contrasting it with the often complimentary style of Klopp: “It’s kind of that full 180 from Klopp, isn’t it? Slot demands the very best, but I think we kind of need that.” Slot’s influence, especially in the pressing game and maintaining high standards, is evident, and his attention to detail ensures Liverpool’s continued dominance in Europe.

For Drinkel, Slot’s meticulousness, highlighted by his frustration over their single loss to Nottingham Forest, is a testament to his high standards. He remarked that Slot’s desire for constant improvement is what will drive Liverpool forward in their quest for further European success.

Final Thoughts

Liverpool’s win over Bologna was not only significant for their Champions League campaign but also highlighted the team’s progression under Arne Slot. With Salah continuing to break records and Szoboszlai cementing his place in the side, the future looks bright for the Reds. As Drinkel summed up on the podcast, “keeping a clean sheet is key in this competition. We may have wanted more goals, but the defensive stability is something we’ve needed.”

With tougher fixtures ahead, including matches against Premier League rivals and European heavyweights, Slot’s Liverpool will need to maintain the balance between attack and defence. If they do, they could be serious contenders in Europe this season.