Liverpool journey to West London this weekend, totally conscious of the potential banana pores and skin Brentford characterize.
The Reds stay prime of the Premier League, however latest stumbles and the chasing pack’s stress imply this conflict on the Gtech Neighborhood Stadium carries added significance.
Brentford’s exceptional 2-2 draw towards Manchester Metropolis final weekend underlines their tenacity. Falling two objectives behind to Phil Foden’s brilliance, they clawed their approach again with Yoane Wissa sparking the comeback and Christian Norgaard sealing a dramatic equaliser in damage time.
Liverpool would do properly to notice how Brentford turned the tide, exploiting their physicality and set-piece prowess towards one of many league’s most organised groups.
Arne Slot’s aspect, in the meantime, arrives on the again of a irritating 1-1 draw with Nottingham Forest. Regardless of salvaging a degree via Diogo Jota’s late intervention, the league leaders appeared uncharacteristically toothless at occasions. With Nottingham Forest and Arsenal respiratory down their necks, Liverpool can not afford one other slip in type.
Brentford’s unpredictability is a trademark of their recreation. Slot acknowledged this in his pre-match press convention, highlighting their potential to press excessive, defend deep, and rating in numerous methods, together with set-pieces.
These attributes will take a look at Liverpool’s defensive resolve, which has appeared shaky of late. Slot might downplay issues over clear sheets, however the absence of defensive solidity is a worrying pattern because the title race heats up.
In assault, Liverpool have their very own inquiries to reply. Darwin Nunez has come below scrutiny, , emphasising the collective goal-scoring choices within the squad.
Even so, consistency within the closing third is essential towards a Brentford aspect able to capitalising on missed alternatives.
The Gtech Neighborhood Stadium has not been a fortress for Brentford this season, with latest residence defeats to Arsenal and Plymouth Argyle exposing their vulnerabilities.
Nonetheless, their spirited struggle towards Metropolis confirmed they’ll nonetheless rise to the event. Liverpool’s unbeaten away document below Slot faces certainly one of its hardest assessments right here.
Whereas historical past favours Liverpool, having received their final 4 league conferences with Brentford, previous outcomes imply little in a season the place no crew has been proof against surprises.
The Reds’ title aspirations hinge on their potential to navigate matches like this, balancing respect for his or her opponent with the ruthlessness required to take care of their lead.
Brentford is not going to make it simple. Liverpool should be ready for a battle, with each level now valuable in a race that’s removed from over.
