Detailed Analysis of Liverpool vs Nottingham Forest Game (Premier League 2024)

Final Score: Liverpool 0-1 Nottingham Forest

Overview

Liverpool suffered a surprising 1-0 defeat to Nottingham Forest at Anfield on September 14, 2024. This match marked the first loss for Liverpool under their new manager, Arne Slot, and ended their perfect start to the season. Callum Hudson-Odoi's 72nd-minute strike was enough to secure Forest's first win at Anfield since 1969.

Tactical Analysis

Liverpool's Approach

Liverpool dominated possession with 70% of the ball but struggled to convert this into meaningful chances. Their expected goals (xG) was a mere 0.87, indicating a lack of high-quality opportunities. Arne Slot's side appeared disjointed, particularly in the final third, where they failed to break down a well-organized Forest defense.

Key Issues:

1. Lack of Fluency: Liverpool's play was criticized for being slow and predictable. Unlike the high-tempo, aggressive style seen under Jurgen Klopp, Slot's team appeared lethargic.
2. Poor Ball Retention: Liverpool lost the ball frequently in simple situations, disrupting their rhythm and allowing Forest to counter-attack effectively.
3. Ineffective Substitutions: Slot's triple substitution on the hour mark, introducing Darwin Nunez, Cody Gakpo, and Conor Bradley, failed to impact the game. The changes did not improve Liverpool's attacking threat, and they conceded shortly after.

Nottingham Forest's Approach

Nuno Espirito Santo's tactical setup was pivotal in Forest's victory. He employed a narrow 4-3-2-1 formation, congesting the midfield and limiting Liverpool's space to operate. Forest's defensive discipline and strategic use of long balls to bypass Liverpool's press were key elements of their game plan.

Key Strengths:

1. Defensive Solidity: Forest's defense, led by center-backs Murillo and Nikola Milenkovic, was resolute. They made crucial blocks, clearances, and interceptions to thwart Liverpool's attacks.
2. Counter-Attacking Threat: The introduction of Anthony Elanga and Callum Hudson-Odoi added pace and directness to Forest's counter-attacks. Hudson-Odoi's goal was a result of a swift counter, exploiting Liverpool's high defensive line.
3. Midfield Congestion: By packing the midfield with five central players, Forest disrupted Liverpool's passing lanes and forced them to play wide, where they were less effective.

Key Moments

1. Luis Diaz's Near Miss: In the first half, Luis Diaz came closest to scoring for Liverpool, hitting the post after a solo effort. This was one of the few clear chances Liverpool created.
2. Hudson-Odoi's Goal: In the 72nd minute, Anthony Elanga's cross-field pass found Hudson-Odoi, who cut inside and curled a shot past Alisson. This goal was a testament to Forest's counter-attacking strategy and Hudson-Odoi's individual brilliance.
3. Late Liverpool Pressure: Despite dominating possession, Liverpool failed to create significant chances in the final stages. Forest's defense remained compact and disciplined, effectively neutralizing Liverpool's attacking threats.

Player Performances

Liverpool

• Alisson (6/10): Made crucial saves to keep Liverpool in the game but could do nothing about Hudson-Odoi's strike.
• Trent Alexander-Arnold (4/10): Struggled both defensively and offensively. His move to midfield did not yield the desired impact.
• Virgil van Dijk (7/10): Solid defensively, making key clearances and interceptions.
• Mohamed Salah (4/10): Had an off day, failing to link up effectively with his teammates and missing several opportunities.
• Luis Diaz (6/10): Liverpool's most dangerous player, creating their best chance of the game.

Nottingham Forest

• Matz Sels (7/10): Made several important saves, including a crucial stop from Jota's header.
• Murillo (8/10): Outstanding in defense, making numerous blocks and clearances.
• Callum Hudson-Odoi (8/10): Scored the decisive goal and was a constant threat on the counter-attack.
• Anthony Elanga (7/10): Provided the assist for the goal and was effective in stretching Liverpool's defense.

Managerial Insights

Arne Slot

Slot's tactical approach was questioned post-match. His decision to stick with the same starting XI for the third consecutive game, despite the international break, may have contributed to the team's lack of sharpness. His substitutions did not have the desired impact, and his team struggled to adapt to Forest's tactics.

Nuno Espirito Santo

Nuno's game plan was executed to perfection. His decision to congest