Under-pressure Liverpool manager Arne Slot saw his brave team selection decisions pay dividends as his side secured a crucial 2-0 victory against West Ham United at the London Stadium in East London.
Calm Leadership Amidst Growing Pressure
The Dutch manager maintained his characteristically understated demeanour throughout the match, walking slowly towards the travelling Liverpool supporters at full-time to acknowledge them with a wave and thumbs up before folding his blue mac over his left arm and striding down the tunnel. This consistent approach has defined Slot's management style as pressure has mounted over recent weeks.
Slot made several significant selection choices ahead of this encounter, most notably excluding star forward Mo Salah from the squad entirely while handing opportunities to Alexander Isak and Florian Wirtz from the start. These decisions would prove instrumental in securing three vital points.
Isak Breaks His Liverpool Duck
The breakthrough finally arrived on the hour mark when Swedish striker Alexander Isak scored his first Premier League goal for Liverpool. The instinctive first-time finish came from a well-delivered Cody Gakpo cross, providing the moment of quality that had been lacking in previous matches.
Prior to his goal, Isak had shown signs of nervousness when presented with opportunities, including spooning an early chance over with his right instep from 18 yards after being found in space by a clever Gakpo dummy. The striker had come closer in the 21st minute when his controlled effort following Joe Gomez's cross required a smart save from West Ham goalkeeper Alphonse Areola.
Florian Wirtz delivered an excellent performance, floating across forward areas and creating numerous opportunities, though his display was arguably bettered by the outstanding holding midfielder Ryan Gravenberch, who maintained his high standards throughout Liverpool's recent struggles.
Nervous Finish Before Gakpo Seals Victory
Despite dominating possession and controlling the game for large periods, Liverpool faced a nervy conclusion after West Ham's Lucas Paqueta received two quick yellow cards for dissent in the 84th minute, reducing the home side to ten men.
Even with the numerical advantage, Liverpool invited late pressure, and West Ham's Jarrod Bowen missed a golden opportunity to equalise with just two minutes remaining, firing wide from the edge of the penalty area when he had time to do better. It would have represented West Ham's first shot on target.
Cody Gakpo eventually secured the victory in added time, volleying home after Liverpool broke forward, with the Dutch international showing excellent technique to control Joe Gomez's cross on his chest before turning to batter the ball past the advancing Areola.
The victory provides welcome relief for Slot and his team ahead of a testing week that includes matches against Sunderland and Leeds United, though significant challenges remain as Liverpool look to build momentum in their Premier League campaign.
