How Liverpool’s Press Stifled Ipswich: Video Analysis and Tactical Breakdown | OneFootball

Liverpool’s Tactical Dominance Against Ipswich: A Deep Dive into Arne Slot’s Masterclass

Liverpool continued their dominant form with a resounding 4-1 victory over Ipswich Town, showcasing the tactical evolution under Arne Slot. Speaking on Anfield Index, Jack McIndoe dissected the Reds’ performance, highlighting key moments that demonstrated Liverpool’s growing cohesion and control.

Ipswich’s Defensive Block vs Liverpool’s Tactical Rotations

Liverpool started the match with their customary back four, facing an Ipswich side set up in a 4-4-2 block. “Ipswich blocked central progression, forcing Liverpool to manipulate their compact structure,” McIndoe explained. This led to two key attacking patterns:

Alexis Mac Allister as a situational left-back – “Mac Allister dropped deeper on the left, pulling their midfield out of shape,” McIndoe noted. This allowed Liverpool to stretch the pitch and create space.

Trent Alexander-Arnold’s advanced positioning – “Trent pushed higher, creating rotation with Salah in the half-space,” he added. This movement dragged defenders away, giving Ibrahima Konaté the chance to step into midfield and pick progressive passes.

Liverpool’s First Goal: Szoboszlai’s Half-Space Brilliance

The effectiveness of these movements became clear when Liverpool broke the deadlock. “Trent’s movement opened up passing lanes, allowing Szoboszlai to receive in the half-space,” McIndoe detailed. “He turned his marker and hit a beautiful shot into the far corner.”

It was strikingly similar to their previous meeting with Ipswich earlier in the season, in which Alexander-Arnold’s freedom in possession played a key role.

Box Presence and Final Third Efficiency

Liverpool have often struggled with attacking numbers in the box when delivering crosses, but against Ipswich, this was markedly improved. “Whenever Liverpool had space in wide areas, they had two players attacking the box,” McIndoe observed.

This presence was pivotal in the second goal. “Szoboszlai’s run into the box drew Greaves and Davis away, leaving Salah with time and space to finish,” he noted. A similar pattern led to the third goal, with Salah, Szoboszlai, and Alexander-Arnold combining to break down Ipswich’s compact defensive structure.

Liverpool’s Defensive Press and Late Set-Piece Concern

Defensively, this was one of Liverpool’s best performances of the season. “The pressing in the buildup, tracking of runners, and counter-pressing were executed at an elite level,” McIndoe remarked. Ipswich, usually dangerous on the break, was restricted to just one shot on target in the first half and three overall.

However, the clean sheet slipped away due to a lapse in concentration. “Harvey Elliott lost his marker, leading to an uncontested header for Greaves at the far post,” McIndoe pointed out. He was particularly critical of the mismatch: “A 6’3” defender against a 5’6” midfielder on a corner is an unacceptable mismatch.”

Title Race Implications and Tactical Growth

Beyond the three points, the biggest takeaway was Liverpool’s fluidity in attack. “The control, tempo, and improved movement are signs of a team evolving tactically,” McIndoe summarised. He gave special praise to Konaté: “He was outstanding, especially with his progressive passing—an aspect of his game that’s faced criticism in the past.”

As Liverpool push for the title, these improvements will be crucial. “Their ability to manipulate compact defences and sustain pressure will be key,” McIndoe concluded. With the title race heating up, performances like this will be essential to maintaining momentum.

For more in-depth Liverpool analysis, check out Anfield Index’s latest episodes.