Video Analysis: Liverpool 2-1 Wolves – What We Learned From Game of Two Halves | OneFootball

Liverpool Edge Past Wolves: A Game of Two Halves

Liverpool’s 2-1 victory over Wolves at Anfield was a match that left fans with mixed emotions. As the Panenka LFC podcast put it, “that was a tough watch,” with a dominant first half followed by a nervy second period where Arne Slot’s side just about held on. This Premier League clash highlighted both the Reds’ attacking brilliance and their ongoing struggles with game management.

First-Half Brilliance: Slot’s Tactical Masterclass

Liverpool started the game with intent, looking to bounce back after recent disappointing results. “We were all hoping the Reds would come out firing against Wolverhampton,” and in the opening 45 minutes, that’s exactly what they did.

A key tactical move by Slot exposed Wolves’ defensive weaknesses early on. “A clever tactical move from Arne Slot tore Wolves’ defensive block apart,” and Liverpool found themselves in complete control. The breakthrough came 15 minutes in, with a perfectly executed “rest attack” approach.

“Take a look at this moment when we win the ball back after a Wolves attack,” the podcast explains. “Notice how we have eight players deep in our own defensive third, but where are the other two?” Mohamed Salah and Diogo Jota stayed high, allowing Liverpool to break quickly. Alexis Mac Allister spotted Jota’s movement and played a perfect pass. “The real moment of brilliance—Jota’s ability to win the ball between two defenders and lay it off to Diaz in one smooth motion.” Within seconds, Salah was in the box, and the deadlock was broken.

This tactical discipline continued, leading to a penalty won by Luis Díaz in the 37th minute. “Brilliant work from Diaz, winning the ball, drawing the foul, and securing the penalty.” Salah converted, giving Liverpool a well-earned 2-0 lead.

Second-Half Collapse: Wolves Fight Back

After a commanding first-half display, the second half was a stark contrast. “A totally different story—the energy dropped, the intensity faded,” and Liverpool lost control. Wolves came out with a new level of aggression, pressing higher and causing problems. As Panenka LFC noted, “Wolves and their manager had a fantastic second half, they stepped up, pressed higher, and nearly dominated us at Anfield.”

Matheus Cunha was at the heart of Wolves’ resurgence. “He was involved in nearly every dangerous moment Wolves created and to be honest, he fully deserved his goal.” The Brazilian’s influence raised an intriguing question: “Should Liverpool target Matheus Cunha in the summer transfer window?”

Despite Wolves’ pressure, Liverpool held on, thanks in part to Alisson Becker’s heroics. “If it wasn’t for Alisson’s brilliant save early in the half and Konaté’s last-ditch intervention in the 88th minute, we could have easily dropped two points or even lost the game altogether.”

Fatigue and Game Management Concerns

This was not the first time Liverpool had struggled in the second half of a game. “At no point in that second half did we ever feel in control, either with or without the ball.” The stats back it up—Liverpool’s xG in the second half was 0.0 compared to Wolves’ 1.0. The passing numbers were also concerning: “We only completed 180 passes compared to Wolves’ 205.”

Photo: IMAGO

As Panenka LFC highlighted, “Fatigue—both mentally and physically—could have played a part.” The concern is that “last year’s scenario cannot repeat itself,” with Liverpool dropping points in crucial moments. Slot has work to do in addressing these issues before they become a bigger problem.

Three Points, But At What Cost?

Liverpool got the win, and as Panenka LFC put it, “The most important thing is that we got the three points, especially after the Everton draw.” But the team shouldn’t be happy with the way they finished the game. “This league is ours to lose, and if we want to go the full distance, games like this need to be managed better.”

While the first half showed Slot’s tactical brilliance, the second half highlighted Liverpool’s ongoing need for composure. “Game management is still an issue… this wasn’t the first time we’ve lost control in the second half, and it can’t become a habit, especially in a title race this tight.”

With Arsenal winning their game, the pressure is on. Can Liverpool find the consistency needed to stay ahead in the Premier League race? Let us know your thoughts—were you happy with the performance? And should Liverpool make a move for Matheus Cunha in the summer?