Thrilling Showdown: Liverpool Squad Shines in Europa League & Europa Conference League - Exclusive Analysis

Dunk's absence key in Brighton defeat

Image:

Jan Paul van Hecke was without centre-back partner Lewis Dunk - and it showed for Brighton

When the teamsheet was released and Brighton captain Lewis Dunk was not included in the matchday squad, eyebrows were raised. Pre-match, Roberto De Zerbi confirmed that Dunk, along with striker Evan Ferguson, was injured. We were already aware that Dunk's absence would have a significant impact, but it was surprising to see just how much Brighton struggled without him.

AEK's first goal showcased their quality, but their next two goals were a result of Brighton's defensive lapses. The visitors took advantage of misplaced passes, highlighting their lack of defensive awareness. It is clear that if Dunk had been present in the defense, the situation would have been improved significantly. Not only would Dunk have contributed with his defensive skills, but also with his leadership and organization of the team, which were sometimes lacking when AEK was on the offensive.

Brighton arguably lacked the presence of Dunk, as De Zerbi explained, emphasizing the importance of focus, the right attitude, and smartness when defending set-pieces against such opponents. There were instances where they failed to execute this effectively, thus highlighting the need to identify potential goal-conceding situations prior to matches if they aspire to improve further.

Jan Paul van Hecke performed adequately in certain instances, although he could have made a stronger contribution for AEK's third goal. There were no notable standout defensive moments from Igor, who replaced Dunk.

Brighton's strategy during set-pieces involved targeting Van Hecke at the back post. Nevertheless, this tactic proved ineffective and provided AEK with an understanding of Brighton's intentions. The absence of Dunk's aerial prowess was evident in these situations, resulting in missed opportunities.

Klopp's squad passes test

: The absence of Dunk on this momentous evening for a club he has dedicated so much to was truly disheartening. However, this circumstance served as a clear demonstration of the defender's indispensability to the Seagulls' triumph, serving as a well-timed reminder as Brighton sets out on their historic European quest. - Charlotte Marsh

Image:

Luis Diaz celebrates as he puts Liverpool ahead alongside Ryan Gravenberch in the Europa League match against LASK. Despite Jurgen Klopp's promise to compete rather than provide chances, his alternate squad of players did not disappoint.

17-year-old Ben Doak became the club's third-youngest player to participate in a European game, achieving this at the age of 17 years and 314 days. In addition, 18-year-old midfielder Stefan Bajcetic was positioned as right-back, gaining his first minutes of the season, while new signing Ryan Gravenberch was given his first opportunity to start.

Although they had work ahead of them during halftime, Liverpool's skill and ability prevailed. Darwin Nunez and Luis Diaz spearheaded yet another impressive comeback, with Gravenberch providing a superb assist for the second goal. To no surprise, Mo Salah entered the game and scored his customary goal in European competitions.

Image:

Liverpool's triumph at LASK was sealed by Mo Salah. Klopp will be delighted with how his team, which underwent significant changes, secured a crucial victory to kick-start their Europa League campaign and alleviate the burden on his squad caused by a congested fixture schedule.

"I was aware that it would pose a significant challenge, and indeed it proved to be quite challenging, despite the skepticism from others," remarked Klopp, although his forthcoming team selection will likely face similar doubt. David Richardson

Moyes must pick right options as he rotates squad

Image:

Tomas Soucek completed the comeback in the 82nd minute.

Despite having 78% possession in the early stages of the first half, West Ham failed to create any scoring chances against Backa Topola. They struggled to make accurate decisions in the attacking areas and missed opportunities to deliver crosses into the box.

The personnel change was necessary to provide a central focal point, which was fulfilled by Michail Antonio. However, Danny Ings's tendency to drop into small spaces wasn't ideal. Instead, they required someone to occupy the three center halves, a role successfully performed by Antonio.

In the end, West Ham made a commendable effort and produced a strong response. They had the potential to secure a victory by a significant margin, perhaps four or five goals. Through perseverance, they gradually wore down their opponents.

Roofe leads from the front for Rangers

Despite some criticism for Rangers' performances, particularly in high-stakes matches, they have successfully secured a positive outcome against Real Betis.

Rangers were exceptional in the second half, truly deserving their victory. During the first half, there was minimal difference between the two teams.

Kemar Roofe delivered a brilliant display, showcasing the qualities of a top-class striker. He skillfully involved his teammates by playing with his back to the goal and had a significant impact on the goal, despite his shot being blocked.

Rangers has successfully contributed to Scottish football by earning co-efficient points with their recent results.

This is a significant achievement for Rangers, without question. It is undoubtedly a reason for celebration for Michael Beale, the players, and the club, as they have managed to recover and initiate a successful Europa League campaign.

Did Villa underestimate Legia Warsaw?

Image:

Aston Villa goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez (left) and team-mate Calum Chambers during their defeat at Legia Warsaw

The result:

Unai Emery may have underestimated Legia Warsaw, who proved to be excellent with their strong organization, impressive turnovers, and effective counter-attacks. However, Villa raised significant concerns as players who had not been heavily involved this season failed to make a significant impact, resulting in their failure to meet expectations.

The results will likely affect their performance in the Premier League. Although their lineup wasn't the strongest, it was sufficient to achieve a favorable outcome.

When you commence the group stages on a positive note, you gain confidence and a consequential belief. However, that didn't instill any confidence in me. It brought back memories of the Newcastle game at the beginning of the season, where they conceded goals too easily.

Aberdeen take pride from performance in Frankfurt - but no points

Aberdeen's frustration was palpable as they sat dejected on the bench, marking a disappointing start to their European campaign. Lee Hendrie's observations accurately depicted the difficult predicament faced by the Dons. With only two points gleaned from their initial five Scottish Premiership matches, Aberdeen found themselves up against an undefeated Eintracht Frankfurt side from the formidable Bundesliga. Furthermore, the German team had triumphed in the Europa League mere seasons ago, making this challenge even more daunting for the Scottish underdogs.

However, despite their efforts, Barry Robson's team will be left disheartened after suffering a 2-1 defeat in Germany. In an impressive fashion, Dante Polvara managed to net his inaugural goal for the club, surprising the 55,000 spectators in the Waldstadion by equalizing the score. Almost surpassing that moment, Ester Sokler had a chance to level the match once again in stoppage time, but unfortunately, his shot missed the target.

Aberdeen can take pride in their performance, coming close to surpassing Frankfurt. However, the margins were slim, leaving the possibility of a truly unforgettable night. "I am content with our playing style and the effort we exerted, but I believe we could have earned even greater rewards if that crucial chance just before the full-time whistle had gone in," Robson commented, voicing his frustration regarding conceding from a set-piece and penalty.

Encouragement, then. But also an awareness that even more is needed if this European adventure is going to be a successful one.Peter Smith