Anfield Index
·19 January 2025
Anfield Index
·19 January 2025
Liverpool extended their lead at the top of the Premier League to six points with a dramatic 2-0 victory over Brentford at the Gtech Community Stadium. While Brentford have been formidable at home this season, it was Darwin Nunez’s late heroics that sealed the points for the Reds, who are now firmly in the driver’s seat in the title race.
Thomas Frank, Brentford’s manager, was full of praise for Liverpool’s performance, lauding their physicality, depth, and quality, as well as singling out Federico Chiesa’s involvement in the decisive moments.
Liverpool dominated the majority of the game but were thwarted by Brentford’s resolute defending for much of the contest. It took 91 minutes and a substitute appearance from Darwin Nunez to finally break the deadlock. His second goal, just two minutes later, ensured the victory was beyond doubt.
Reflecting on Liverpool’s persistence, Frank admitted:
“Liverpool are the best team in the world right now. We just played against City and Arsenal, and I think they are a level above right now, more complete in all phases of the game. Yeah, very good, exceptionally good.”
Frank acknowledged the determination of his side, who had previously earned a hard-fought draw against Manchester City at home, but admitted Liverpool’s class was undeniable. “You can’t say 0-0 wouldn’t have been unfair, but if they won 1-0, you probably can’t argue,” he added.
Picture:IMAGO
Federico Chiesa, one of Liverpool’s standout signings this season, played a pivotal role in the build-up to the second goal. His movement and ability to stretch Brentford’s defence highlighted the variety in Liverpool’s attacking options. Thomas Frank touched on the challenge of dealing with such depth:
“Diaz is drifting more to the side sometimes whereas Nunez is always straight into the box. It’s different, of course, but the players adjust. Chiesa, of course, plays more on the side. We handled it well for 90 minutes until [Cody] the last four.”
This tactical flexibility has been a cornerstone of Arne Slot’s Liverpool side. The ability to rotate between the likes of Nunez, Chiesa, and Diaz gives the Reds a unique edge, particularly in tight games.
Beyond their tactical nous, Liverpool’s physicality continues to stand out. Virgil van Dijk’s lung-busting chase to deny Bryan Mbeumo epitomised their relentless approach. Frank highlighted this aspect of their game as a key factor in their success:
“I think they physically are outstanding. If you look at their players and the way they are through the middle when they have [Dominik] Szoboszlai, [Ryan] Gravenberch, [Alexis] Mac Allister – he is a football player, but he can still move his feet.”
Liverpool’s balance between technical ability and physical presence has been instrumental in their resurgence under Slot. As Frank summarised: “Technically and tactically they are very good and have got physicality.”
Liverpool’s victory over Brentford further underlines their evolution into a complete team. Darwin Nunez’s emergence as a reliable match-winner is an exciting development, especially as he continues to thrive in pressure moments. Federico Chiesa, meanwhile, offers a blend of creativity and intelligence that makes Liverpool’s attack unpredictable and hard to contain.
Under Arne Slot, the Reds seem to have found a perfect balance between grit and guile. The midfield trio of Szoboszlai, Gravenberch, and Mac Allister adds dynamism, while Van Dijk and Konate provide defensive assurance. Slot’s tactical flexibility, coupled with Liverpool’s depth, positions them as favourites for the Premier League title.
As Thomas Frank aptly put it, Liverpool are currently “the best team in the world.” With their momentum building, it’s hard to see anyone stopping them from reclaiming domestic glory.