Ipswich Town – Liverpool: Ipswich Collapse Against Speedy Liverpool Attack (0-2)

Kieran McKenna’s side were relatively impressive in the first half with their high pressing approach. However, the space behind their high defensive line eventually became vulnerable, and Liverpool were able to exploit this in the second half with some incisive attacking moves.

Tactical analysis and match report by Josh Manley.

After consecutive promotions under the leadership of Kieran McKenna, Ipswich Town marked their return to top division football by hosting Liverpool at Portman Road. It was a new adventure for Liverpool too, as they entered the post-Jürgen Klopp era with Arne Slot replacing him on the touchline.

Ipswich lined up in a 4-2-3-1 formation for this game, with a back four of Axel Tuanzebe, Luke Woolfenden, Jacob Greaves, and Leif Davis. Massimo Luongo and Sam Morsy were the double pivot, while Conor Chaplin was then number ten. Wes Burns and Omari Hutchinson then flanked Liam Delap up front.

While Liverpool have experienced change in the dugout this summer, there have been no additions to the playing squad. They also lined up in a 4-2-3-1 shape, with Trent Alexander-Arnold, Jarell Quansah, Virgil van Dijk, and Andrew Robertson as the back four. Ryan Gravenberch and Alexis Mac Allister were the double pivot, while Dominik Szoboszlai was the number ten. Mohamed Salah, Diogo Jota, and Luis Díaz were the forwards.

Ipswich’s high press

Despite being heavy underdogs, the home side showed no fear in their approach to this game. They benefitted from this most clearly in the first half, where their proactive, high-pressing approach caused discomfort for Liverpool, and . . .