Liverpool scored six goals in Austria, conceded three, and somehow managed to provide a compelling exhibition of both the promise and the peril of Andoni Iraola’s football.
Jeremie Frimpong embodied the contradiction. Going forward, he was electric. A goal, an assist, relentless energy and the capacity to stretch a defence until its organisation collapsed. Defensively, however, it was a deeply troubling evening. All three LASK goals originated from his side of the pitch. His positioning, awareness and vulnerability in individual duels remain serious concerns. Against better opposition, those weaknesses will be punished mercilessly.
There was considerable pleasure in watching Bradley Barcola finally announce himself. Three goals, growing confidence and the unmistakable liberation of a player beginning to trust his instincts again. The talent was never in doubt. Hopefully, the conviction will now follow.
And Florian Wirtz? Perhaps the most encouraging aspect of the evening.
For once, he had movement around him, runners anticipating his passes, teammates occupying defenders and combinations creating the spaces his intelligence is designed to exploit. Liverpool’s attacking structure looked coherent, fluid and purposeful. Wirtz suddenly appeared a footballer with possibilities everywhere he looked.
Yes, it was LASK. Perspective remains essential.
But there was genuine satisfaction in seeing attacking ideas translated into something tangible. The movement had purpose, the combinations had rhythm, and the players appeared to understand what their teammates intended.
Six goals provide encouragement. Three conceded demand scrutiny.
Iraola has plenty to work with and plenty to work on.
And Frimpong? He might be the most exhilarating and exasperating footballer in this Liverpool side.
Post-Match Podcasts
Full-Time Reds: Nina Kauser and Sam Qaute give their instant reaction to Liverpool’s win over LASK in Austria - Watch Now
Post-Match RAW: Trev Downey is joined by Dave Hendrick and Guy Drinkel to unpack Liverpool’s 6-3 win over LASK in tonight’s Champions League clash - Listen Now
Liverpool head coach Andoni Iraola reflects on the win in Austria against LASK this evening - Listen Now
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