How Liverpool Overcame Southampton’s Low Block to Secure Vital Points | OneFootball

Southampton 2-3 Liverpool: Tactical Analysis

Liverpool’s clash against Southampton wasn’t without its challenges, but the Reds emerged victorious, securing a crucial three points. On a weekend when Manchester City faltered spectacularly against Spurs, the victory gave Liverpool an eight-point cushion at the summit of the Premier League table after 12 rounds.

The energy in this game reminded me of the previous evening when City’s 4-0 thrashing had me momentarily swept up by the Spurs euphoria in a London pub. By the fourth goal, I had to splash water on my face to remember I wasn’t a Spurs fan, leaving the bar with dreams of Liverpool extending their lead.

Slot’s Tactical Adaptation

With Trent Alexander-Arnold sidelined due to injury, Liverpool manager Arne Slot made some crucial adjustments. Conor Bradley filled in at right-back, while Alexis Mac Allister and Luis Díaz were rested, perhaps with an eye on the packed fixture list ahead. The first half was tightly contested, with Liverpool managing just 0.58 non-penalty expected goals (npxG). However, they shifted into higher gear after the break.

Russell Martin’s Southampton set up in a compact 5-4-1 low block out of possession, evidenced by a 20.0 passes-per-defensive-action (PPDA), indicating their passive approach. Southampton’s Kyle Walker-Peters was tasked with neutralising Cody Gakpo on the left, while Fraser struggled to contain Mohamed Salah on the right.

The visual representation of Liverpool’s Expected Threat (xT) patterns showed a stark contrast in their attacking dynamics. Liverpool generated most of their danger down the left through Gakpo, but Salah’s influence in the right half-space was undeniable. Despite Southampton’s admirable effort to clog Zone 14—the central area just outside their penalty box—they were overwhelmed when Liverpool cranked up the tempo in the second half.

Liverpool’s Dominance in Key Metrics

Statistically, Liverpool’s superiority was evident. The Reds outshot Southampton 27-7, had more shots on target (11-5), and vastly outperformed in open-play xG (1.8-0.3). They also dominated touches inside the penalty area, registering 51 to Southampton’s 17. The shot map told its own story, with Liverpool creating seven big chances, 18 of their shots coming from inside the box.

The pressing intensity has perhaps shifted slightly under Slot compared to the heavy-metal days of Jürgen Klopp, but the aggression around the opposition penalty area remains lethal. Liverpool’s impressive 8.1 PPDA reflects this intensity. One such moment of pressure led to Dominik Szoboszlai’s goal, a pivotal turning point in the match.

Szoboszlai’s Star Performance

Szoboszlai’s goal epitomised Liverpool’s high pressing. A misplaced pass from Flynn Downes, under pressure from Curtis Jones, fell to Szoboszlai, who intercepted brilliantly and unleashed a precise shot that ricocheted off the far post and into the net. His underlying numbers were equally impressive: 85% passing accuracy, three chances created, 0.42 expected assists (xA), five shots, and six duels won. He was everywhere, with 72 touches and four recoveries, thriving in the No. 10 role.

Curtis Jones, while understated, delivered a flawless passing performance, completing all 58 of his passes. This ensured stability in Liverpool’s midfield and allowed players like Szoboszlai and Gravenberch to flourish.

Gravenberch’s Influence

Ryan Gravenberch was another standout performer, particularly in the second half. His involvement in Salah’s goal showcased his vision and composure. Receiving the ball near the halfway line, he exploited the space afforded by Southampton’s retreating defence. Gravenberch’s long ball to Salah was inch-perfect, slicing through the lines to set up the Egyptian’s clinical finish. Salah, always a livewire, could have easily bagged a hat-trick, but his individual brilliance played a decisive role in turning the game around.

Gravenberch’s contribution extended beyond his assist. His passing heatmap highlights his centrality to Liverpool’s build-up play. Completing 93% of his passes, creating three chances, and winning five of seven duels, his performance in the double-pivot alongside Jones was pivotal to Liverpool’s dominance.

Defensive Stability – Room For Improvement

While Liverpool conceded twice, Slot’s out-of-possession 4-2-3-1 system largely stifled Southampton’s attacking ambitions. The Saints managed just 0.25 npxG, a testament to Liverpool’s defensive structure. However, moments of vulnerability suggest there’s still room for improvement, particularly in transitions.

Team On The Rise

With 16 wins in 18 matches, Liverpool sit atop the Premier League table with an eight-point lead. Their goal difference of +16 and an expected goal difference (xGD) per 90 minutes of +1.05 emphasise their dominance. Slot’s impact has been transformative, instilling a sense of control and purpose in the team.

As I skipped down Tottenham Court Road the previous night, buoyed by both Jack Daniels and the prospect of an eight-point lead, the thought lingered: can this Liverpool team sustain this level through a gruelling season? The early signs are overwhelmingly positive, but the consistency test will ultimately define their campaign.

Analysis by Imre Borbely and tactical visuals courtesy of XFB Analytics.