Liverpool had a strong start in their Premier League match against Crystal Palace during Saturday’s early kickoff. The Reds were at the top of the table, while Palace was struggling in 18th place. Despite their differing seasons, Selhurst Park has historically been a challenging venue for visiting teams, especially for early games.
Liverpool’s recent encounters with Crystal Palace highlighted the potential difficulties they could face. In April, Palace surprised Liverpool with a victory at Anfield, reminding them of the threat they posed. However, Liverpool quickly shook off any jitters, scoring just eight minutes into the match when Diogo Jota finished off a well-coordinated play involving Kostas Tsimikas and Cody Gakpo.
As Liverpool took control, former player Joe Cole praised Jota’s movement that led to the goal.
**Joe Cole Highlights Jota’s Movement**
Jota had been omitted from Liverpool’s squad for their midweek win against Bologna. Despite scoring twice against West Ham in the Carabao Cup the previous week, he had been inconsistent this season. With Darwin Nunez missing his chance against Bologna, coach Arne Slot decided to reinstate Jota in the starting lineup for this Premier League match.
This decision proved effective as Jota scored Liverpool’s first goal just eight minutes in, showcasing his determination by getting past Palace goalkeeper Dean Henderson for an early lead. Commenting on the match for TNT Sports, Joe Cole noted Jota’s movement was causing significant issues for the Palace defense.
“Liverpool have been sensational,” Cole stated. “Alexander-Arnold, Salah, and Curtis Jones on the right are creating space, and the defenders are struggling. Jota’s movement is troubling all three defenders, leading to the goal. It’s been brilliant.”
**Jota Meets Coach Slot’s Expectations**
In the lead-up to the match, Liverpool coach Arne Slot had urged his central strikers for more goals. Heading into the game, Jota and Nunez had only managed four goals combined, prompting Slot to seek more attacking contributions from the middle rather than relying solely on wingers.
Jota’s performance responded perfectly to Slot’s challenge. Though Tsimikas and Gakpo set up the goal from the flanks, it was Jota’s effort that made it possible. The 27-year-old wasn’t the favorite to reach Gakpo’s pass but showed persistence to beat Palace defender Trevoh Chalobah to the ball and finish clinically. This moment showcased Jota’s tenacity and instinctive finishing ability.
This goal not only gave Liverpool an early advantage but also highlighted Jota’s importance to the team, especially in meeting his coach’s tactical expectations. While Nunez has struggled for form recently, Jota’s knack for delivering in key moments could secure his position in the starting lineup.
Slot’s demand for more central contributions proved effective this time, and Jota’s sharpness in front of goal may encourage the coach to continue relying on the Portuguese forward as the season unfolds.
