Liverpool vs Brentford – Extended Preview for GW2

Liverpool and Brentford stand set to clash at Anfield in what promises to be an intriguing encounter in the second matchweek of the 2024/25 Premier League season. Both teams are coming off victories in their opening games, with Liverpool defeating Ipswich Town 2-0, while Brentford secured a 2-1 win against Crystal Palace.

This match will be particularly significant for Liverpool as it marks Arne Slot’s first competitive game in charge at Anfield, following a successful pre-season friendly against Sevilla that saw the Reds triumph 4-1.

For the Reds, the key to asserting their dominance over Brentford lies in controlling the midfield. In their win against Ipswich, the Reds struggled initially but turned the game around by tightening up defensively and gaining control in the middle of the park. Against Brentford, who play their high-energy, attacking style under Thomas Frank, Liverpool will need to replicate that second-half performance from Ipswich by creating an overload in midfield and winning the physical battles.

WHAT TO EXPECT FROM BRENTFORD?

The Bees, under Frank, have developed a reputation for their counter-attacking prowess and physicality, qualities that were on display in their victory over Crystal Palace. Bryan Mbeumo opened the scoring for the Bees, but they were pegged back by an unfortunate own goal from Ethan Pinnock. However, Yoane Wissa stepped up late in the game to secure all three points with a well-taken winner. Brentford’s approach is clear: they press aggressively, break quickly, and look to exploit any defensive lapses from their opponents. For Liverpool, nullifying this threat will be crucial.

Tactically, Brentford are likely to line up in a 4-2-3-1 formation, with Christian Norgaard and Vitaly Janelt forming a solid double pivot in midfield. This duo is adept at breaking up play and providing a platform for Brentford’s quick transitions. With Ivan Toney’s future at the club uncertain, Wissa will once again lead the line, looking to exploit any spaces left by Liverpool’s high defensive line. Liverpool’s backline, therefore, will need to be alert to the threat posed by Brentford’s quick and direct attacks.

Arne‘s men, on the other hand, could continue with their evolution under Slot, building on the positives from the Ipswich game. The Reds will likely deploy a 4-3-3 or a 4-2-3-1 formation, with the latter offering more tactical flexibility and the ability to overload the midfield. Given Brentford’s strength in the middle, Liverpool’s midfield trio of Ryan Gravenberch, Alexis Mac Allister, and Dominik Szoboszlai will be crucial. Gravenberch, who impressed in the previous match, will need to maintain his high level of performance, winning duels and ensuring Liverpool control the tempo of the game.

WHAT MIGHT SLOT DO?

Slot’s approach to substitutions in the Ipswich game demonstrated his tactical astuteness and willingness to make tough decisions. The halftime switch, bringing on Ibrahima Konate for Jarell Quansah, was a masterstroke, transforming the game in Liverpool’s favour. This decisiveness will be important against a Brentford side that thrives on exploiting weaknesses. Starting Konate alongside Virgil van Dijk in central defence should provide Liverpool with the physicality and aerial dominance needed to counter Brentford’s attacking threat, particularly from set-pieces and counter-attacks.

Trent Alexander-Arnold and Andy Robertson have their task cut out right in front of them. Brentford’s attackers, mainly Mbeumo and Wissa, are both quick and direct, and any lapses in concentration could be costly. Trent’s ability to tuck into midfield during possession could help Liverpool create numerical superiority, but he will need to transition back into his defensive duties swiftly to prevent the West Londoners from countering effectively.

In attack, we know what to expect from Liverpool. Mohamed Salah, as always, will be the focal point, but Diogo Jota and Luis Diaz’s movement will be crucial in dragging Brentford’s defenders out of position and creating spaces. Incidentally, Mo’s brace and Jota’s goal proved to be the difference between the sides when they last met at Anfield. Dominik Szoboszlai, in #10 will also play a crucial role in finding spaces between the lines and helping unlock the Bees’ “not so strong” defence, for the lack of better words.

PLAYING TO OUR STRENGTHS

Liverpool’s ability to press high and counter-press after losing the ball will be essential in disrupting Brentford’s rhythm. Brentford are known for their quick transitions, but Liverpool’s counter-pressing, a hallmark of their play under Klopp and likely to continue under Slot, can suffocate Brentford’s attempts to break out. Winning the second balls and maintaining high intensity will prevent Brentford from settling into their attacking patterns.

Brentford’s potential vulnerability lies in their desire to play on the front foot. While this approach has brought them success, it also leaves them open to quick counters. Liverpool, with their own distinct counter-attacking style, can exploit the spaces left by Brentford’s adventurous full-backs. The pace of Salah and Diaz, combined with Jota’s clinical finishing, makes Liverpool a formidable counter-attacking force. Quick turnovers and precise passing could see Liverpool break with devastating effect, especially if Brentford commit too many players forward.

In all honesty, you can see that happen. Brentford, with their express pace on the wings, might commit too many players forward, one of them might catch the Reds early in the opening few minutes of the game. They will either come VERY VERY close to scoring the opener, or Alisson will have to bring out one of his world-class saves to ensure that the Bees are not on the front foot from the get-go. Cliché, right? Well, that has been our kryptonite for the last few seasons.

FORTRESS ANFIELD

Another factor to consider is the atmosphere at Anfield. Arne Slot’s first competitive game at this iconic stadium will undoubtedly be charged with emotion. The Anfield crowd, always a formidable presence, will be eager to see their team start the home campaign with a win. The energy from the stands could fuel Liverpool’s high-octane style, pressing Brentford into mistakes and creating opportunities.

Joe Gomez’s potential involvement is another subplot to watch. With rumours swirling about his future, giving Gomez minutes could be an important gesture from Slot, both to show faith in the player and to maintain squad morale. Gomez’s versatility and experience make him a valuable asset, and his involvement could be crucial in a long season.

While the Bees will pose a significant challenge with their quick transitions and physicality, Liverpool’s superior quality, tactical flexibility, and home advantage should give them the upper hand. Slot’s no-nonsense approach, combined with his tactical acumen, suggests that Liverpool are well-prepared to secure another three points and continue their strong start to the season. As always, expecting a positive result is the least Liverpool fans will demand, and with Slot at the helm, they have every reason to be optimistic. 2-1? Nah, we can do better. 3-1.

The early signs are promising, but as always, consistency will be key. If Liverpool can combine their traditional strengths with Slot’s fresh ideas, they could be in for a memorable season. All eyes will be on Anfield to see how this new chapter unfolds.