Liverpool: A Challenging Start with Epic Endings?
In the current Premier League season, Liverpool has proven to be a team of contrasts, with a performance that has generated both amazement and questions. The “Reds” have starred in a campaign start marked by agonizing victories and spectacular comebacks, but is this a sign of strength or a hidden fragility?
The team has yet to know defeat and leads the table with a notable advantage. However, this supremacy has been built on late goals and close results. The matches against teams like Newcastle and Burnley have been decided in the last minutes, which has generated debate about the team’s true ability to maintain the pace.The Magic of Late Goals
Liverpool’s ability to score in the final moments has been a hallmark. Decisive goals from players like Dominik Szoboszlai and Mohamed Salah have secured crucial victories. This ability to react in the final moments evokes memories of Sir Alex Ferguson’s era at Manchester United, known for its winning mentality.
Since the creation of the Premier League, Liverpool have won 43 matches with goals scored in the 90th minute or later, surpassing any other team in the league.
However, this statistic raises a question: is Liverpool the best team in tight finals, or has it simply needed to resort to this strategy more often?Tactical and Statistical Analysis
The analysis of the statistics reveals a more complex picture. Liverpool stands out in the second half when the score is tied, scoring goals and showing a solid defense. However, when the team takes the lead, their offensive performance decreases, which suggests a possible weakness in managing the advantage.
The team has invested heavily in offensive players, but has yet to effectively exploit the counterattack. The lack of tactical balance, with only two midfielders, could be a key factor in this situation.Long-Term Perspectives
The adjusted “goal differential”, which combines actual and expected goals, is a good indicator of a team’s performance throughout the season. Liverpool, with a performance similar to last season, needs to improve to aim for the title. They will have to avoid collapses after taking the lead and secure victories before the 85th minute.
Despite the challenges, Liverpool has built a considerable lead thanks to their victories in crucial moments. The ability of Szoboszlai and other players to make a difference in high-pressure moments has been fundamental.
Liverpool needs to improve its performance to aim for the title, but not necessarily surpass Arsenal.
