Liverpool Player Ratings vs Nottingham Forest: Reds Stunned at Anfield

Liverpool player ratings vs Nottingham Forest painted a sobering picture for the defending champions, as Arne Slot’s side suffered a crushing 3-0 defeat at Anfield. In a match defined by defensive errors and VAR controversies, Nottingham Forest capitalized to leave the Reds reeling and Slot under mounting scrutiny.

Liverpool Player Ratings vs Nottingham Forest: Defensive Woes Exposed

It was a nightmare afternoon from the outset for Liverpool. An early opportunity for Alexis Mac Allister was denied by a crucial block, setting the tone for what would become a frustrating day. Moments later, Liverpool’s inability to clear a corner allowed Murillo to open the scoring for Forest. The decision stood, despite Liverpool protests that Dan Ndoye was obstructing Alisson’s line of sight—a moment that encapsulated the Reds’ misfortune with VAR.

The rest of the first half only deepened Liverpool’s woes. Milos Kerkez squandered a golden chance set up by Mohamed Salah, while Forest nearly doubled their lead, only for VAR to intervene and rule out Igor Jesus’ effort for handball.

Midfield Struggles and Lack of Creativity

In midfield, Liverpool’s usual control was missing. Ryan Gravenberch looked off the pace and risked a booking for a rash challenge, while Alexis Mac Allister’s influence faded after his early chance. Curtis Jones, often a creative spark, struggled to assert himself, losing possession in dangerous areas.

Attack Blunted by Resilient Forest Defence

Up front, Liverpool’s attack was stifled. Mohamed Salah showed flashes of brilliance, notably creating Kerkez’s chance, but spent most of the afternoon crowded out by Forest defenders. Alexander Isak, still searching for his first Premier League goal in a Liverpool shirt, managed just 15 touches before being substituted after 68 minutes—a statistic reflective of his ongoing struggles. Cody Gakpo threatened early but faded after halftime, his lack of defensive awareness allowing Forest to score their second through Nicolo Savona.

Second Half Collapse Seals Liverpool’s Fate

Slot’s halftime team talk failed to inspire a turnaround. Forest began the second half with renewed energy, quickly doubling their advantage as Neco Williams burst past Mac Allister and squared for Savona. Liverpool’s substitutions—Hugo Ekitike, Federico Chiesa, and Andy Robertson—all failed to stem the tide. Forest capped their triumph with a third goal from Morgan Gibbs-White in the 78th minute, silencing the Anfield faithful.

Individual Liverpool Player Ratings vs Nottingham Forest

• Alisson Becker (5/10): Little he could do about the goals on his return.
• Dominik Szoboszlai (3/10): Out of position and exposed defensively.
• Ibrahima Konate (3/10): Fortunate with VAR but struggled throughout.
• Virgil van Dijk (3/10): Rarely looked in control; failed to marshal the defence.
• Milos Kerkez (3/10): Missed Liverpool’s best first-half chance and was ineffective out wide.
• Ryan Gravenberch (3/10): Could not dictate play or offer defensive cover.
• Alexis Mac Allister (3/10): Started brightly but faded and was overrun.
• Curtis Jones (3/10): Anonymous in midfield and caught out on the ball.
• Mohamed Salah (5/10): A couple of promising moments, but largely neutralized.
• Alexander Isak (2/10): Barely involved, still searching for his debut goal.
• Cody Gakpo (5/10): Early threats evaporated as Forest took control.

Substitutes and Manager

• Hugo Ekitike (5/10): No significant impact after replacing Konate.
• Federico Chiesa (5/10): Missed a good chance, unable to spark a comeback.
• Andy Robertson (4/10): Off the pace defensively after coming on.
• Rio Ngumoha (N/A): Introduced late with the game already lost.
• Arne Slot (3/10): Tactics exposed; pressure building as Liverpool’s form dips.

VAR Drama and Controversial Calls

VAR was again central to the narrative at Anfield. Liverpool felt aggrieved by the decision to allow Murillo’s opener, despite apparent obstruction, and benefitted marginally when Forest’s potential second was chalked off for handball. Yet, these moments could not mask a bigger problem: Liverpool’s own defensive frailties and lack of attacking cohesion.

What’s Next for Liverpool?

This defeat leaves Arne Slot facing tough questions as Liverpool prepare for European fixtures against PSV Eindhoven and, for Forest, a Europa League clash with Malmo FF. The urgency to regroup cannot be overstated, and changes—both tactical and personnel—may be imminent if Liverpool are to revive their title defence.

Opinion: Urgent Changes Needed After Humbling Loss

Liverpool’s performance against Nottingham Forest was far below their usual standards. The lack of defensive organization, midfield stability, and attacking threat was alarming. Arne Slot must address these issues swiftly, possibly starting with reshuffling the front line and restoring defensive discipline. Dropping out-of-form players like Alexander Isak may provide the spark the Reds desperately need. For all the build-up surrounding this match, Liverpool fell short on every level.

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