Liverpool manager Arne Slot marked his Premier League debut with a 2-0 victory over newly promoted Ipswich Town, but the Dutchman wasn't entirely satisfied with his team's performance.
Despite the win, Slot pinpointed a key issue that his team faced during the match, especially in the first half.
Liverpool's victory was secured by second-half goals from Diogo Jota and Mohamed Salah, but Slot's post-match analysis focused on the first 45 minutes, where his team struggled to find their rhythm.
"Our problem in the first half was that we lost too many duels," Slot remarked, highlighting the lack of intensity and composure that left Liverpool looking vulnerable against an energetic Ipswich side.
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Slot unhappy with first-half struggles
The first half saw Liverpool manage just three shots, none on target, and an expected goals figure of only 0.11. The performance was marked by errors, a sluggish tempo, and a general lack of confidence, which gave Ipswich more control than Slot would have liked.
However, the second half was a different story. Slot's halftime team talk seemed to ignite the team, as Liverpool returned to the pitch with more energy and precision.
The midfield trio of Ryan Gravenberch, Alexis Mac Allister, and Dominik Szoboszlai became more dominant, helping Liverpool to impose themselves on the game.
The Reds' increased tempo and improved passing allowed them to break down Ipswich's defence more effectively. Off the ball, the team also showed greater intensity, preventing Ipswich from playing out from the back as comfortably as they had in the first half.
Arne Slot on the first half: "Our problem in the first half was that we lost too many duels"
— This Is Anfield (@thisisanfield) August 17, 2024
While the second-half performance showcased what Slot's team are capable of, the manager's focus on the first-half shortcomings suggests that he knows there's work to be done.
Tougher challenges await, and Slot will want to ensure that Liverpool can maintain their intensity from the first whistle, avoiding the sluggish starts that could cost them against stronger opposition.
Slot's debut was successful, but his sharp eye for the team's flaws indicates that he's already looking to improve as Liverpool push forward in the new season.
