Arne Slot’s first Premier League home game as Liverpool manager ended in victory, as the Reds maintained their winning start to the season with a triumph over Brentford.
Luis Diaz marked his 100th appearance for Liverpool with a clinical 13th-minute goal, following a swift counter-attack that began with Ibrahima Konate clearing a Brentford corner.
Mohamed Salah then set Diogo Jota on his way, and the Colombian forward finished the move with precision.
Liverpool displayed plenty of energy throughout the match, with Mark Flekken making two sharp saves to deny Andy Robertson. Brentford, missing striker Ivan Toney as the transfer deadline looms, had their own chances.
Captain Christian Norgaard missed a golden opportunity to equalize with a free header from about 10 yards out, and Alisson was called into action to stop a header from Nathan Collins.
The Reds secured the win when Salah found the net with his left foot, scoring his second goal of the season.
This energetic Liverpool side under Slot shows promise, and while there is still room for improvement, they head to Manchester United next Sunday with back-to-back victories under their Dutch manager.
Air of excitement
There was an air of excitement for Slot’s first Premier League home game in charge with Liverpool’s famous ground sounding even louder than usual for the start of the post-Jurgen Klopp era at Anfield.
John W Henry flew in from Boston for Klopp’s final game in charge in May and the Liverpool owner was here for Slot’s big moment.
A banner in the crowd near the home dugout displayed Slot’s face with the words “We Got Your Back Arne,” while fans waved scarves bearing the Dutchman’s name.
The lively atmosphere was sustained after Diaz gave Liverpool an ideal start with a well-taken finish following a rapid counter-attack, assisted by Jota. Left-back Robertson nearly doubled the lead after exchanging passes with Diaz.
However, Liverpool had some nervous moments, and it wasn’t until Salah scored the second goal in the 70th minute that the home fans could truly relax.
Liverpool, who struck the woodwork through a deflected effort by substitute Cody Gakpo, have been patient in their approach to strengthening a squad that fell short in last season’s title race.
Some might argue that the limited signings indicate Slot’s confidence in his current squad, and as long as Liverpool keep winning, all appears well.
The concern lies in how the team will cope when their form dips, especially as they navigate the demands of both the Premier League and Champions League.
Brentford remain highly competitive
Brentford, who fought hard and remained competitive until Salah’s goal sealed the game, will likely feel some relief when the transfer window closes and Toney’s future is resolved.
For the second consecutive match, the England forward was left out, fueling ongoing speculation about a possible departure.
Regardless of Toney’s situation, Brentford continues to show their competitiveness at this level. Bryan Mbeumo stands out as a forward willing to put in the effort, while Keane Lewis-Potter delivered an impressive performance at Anfield, even if it went unrewarded.
Securing home points will be vital for Brentford, who face Southampton on Saturday, before challenging away fixtures against Manchester City, Tottenham, and Manchester United.
Player of the Match:
Number: 7, L. Díaz