Liverpool’s Champions League aspirations took a big hit as a deflected stoppage-time goal doomed the Reds to a 2-1 loss to Wolves.
Here’s what we learned after the devastating result.
Taking A Step Backwards
One of the hallmarks of Liverpool’s recent run of good play, until today, was the fact that the Reds were more aggressive in attack, sacrificing possession and a slow buildup in the process. That all changed today as Liverpool had tons of possession (66 per cent), but not many meaningful chances.
Arne Slot and some fans may cry bad luck, as the Reds had a shot tipped off the post and the game-winner by Wolves would likely have been saved by Alisson had it not deflected off Joe Gomez, but the blame for this loss goes solely on the boss.
Why go back to a possession-based brand of football when attacking aggressively had led to the club turning the corner?
I still don’t think Arne Slot should be sacked. After all, he is just one victory away from tying Sir Kenny Dalglish for the fastest manager ever to 100 wins at Liverpool. That means something, but this result does not look good.
Salah Breaks Streak.
According to commentators, it had been nearly 19 hours of match time since Salah scored an EPL goal. The Egyptian King changed the narrative with a goal in the 83rd minute. He was also a willing runner down the wing. He may have lost a step or two, but he can still put in a proper shift and score big goals. Rumours are swirling that Salah may be playing his last few games on Merseyside, but if so, Salah is not cruising toward a finish. He is sprinting instead.
A Look At The Table
Liverpool had a chance to go Top-3 with a big win tonight, but they let that chance slip away. Chelsea can now move up the table and drop Liverpool to 6th with the win at Aston Villa. However, if the villains can hold the Blues to a draw or take all three points, the Reds would still be in 5th place, which would probably be good enough for Champions League qualification this season.
The loss was bad, but it is certainly not a death knell for UCL's hopes. It just sets up a nervy finish for these last eight EPL games.
Have Your Say
Who is at fault for this loss? Is it Slot’s tactics? Is it Gomez for the deflected goal, or does it lie with a variety of factors? Do you still have hope Liverpool can qualify for the Champions League next season? Let us know below.