Liverpool’s new era under Arne Slot kicked off with a rollercoaster opening-day win, as the Reds edged past Bournemouth in a clash that combined thrilling highs with worrying reminders of unfinished business.
What looked like a routine victory nearly turned into a nightmare after Liverpool let a two-goal lead slip, only for Federico Chiesa and Mohamed Salah to produce decisive late moments. The win delivered three points, but it also laid bare the cracks that could complicate the Dutchman’s debut season at Anfield.
The performance was a perfect snapshot of the promise and pitfalls facing Slot’s side. Liverpool’s front line dazzled with sharp movement and attacking intent, while the midfield showed signs of adapting to the manager’s tactical blueprint. The ambition and fighting spirit demanded by supporters were there in abundance.
Yet the defensive frailties that have haunted the Reds in recent years quickly re-emerged. A sloppy giveaway opened the door for Bournemouth, and disjointed positioning allowed them to claw back into the game. It was a reminder that Liverpool remain a work in progress—vulnerable to lapses that stronger opponents will surely punish.
In the end, resilience proved the difference. Chiesa’s dynamism and Salah’s composure ensured a winning start, showcasing the kind of mentality needed for a title push. Still, the chaotic path to victory left questions hanging: can this Liverpool side maintain consistency over the course of a grueling campaign?
Slot himself didn’t shy away from the flaws, admitting his team were “far too open defensively at times.” For a coach famed for his structured backlines at Feyenoord, the message was clear—organizing this defense is the next vital step if Liverpool are to turn flashes of brilliance into a sustained title challe
