Dominik Szoboszlai Shines as Liverpool Edge Real Betis

Dominik Szoboszlai’s excellent finish secured Arne Slot his first victory as Liverpool manager with a 1-0 win over Real Betis in Pittsburgh. This match marked Liverpool’s first win of their US tour after a behind-closed-doors defeat to Preston earlier in the month. Hungarian midfielder Szoboszlai scored in the 34th minute, converting Mohamed Salah’s through ball. Despite Betis striker Juanmi missing two opportunities, Liverpool held firm.

Liverpool lost midfielder Curtis Jones to injury after 28 minutes with Slot stating it was too early to determine the severity. Slot has introduced a more possession-based, slower style of play compared to Klopp’s “heavy metal football,” utilizing a fluid 4-2-4 formation without a striker, partly due to personnel limitations. Harvey Elliot and Dominik Szoboszlai alternated in the number 10 role, with Slot frequently directing from the sidelines.

The new approach resembled Erik ten Hag’s successful tactic in the FA Cup final where Bruno Fernandes played upfront. Liverpool, despite fielding a youthful squad, dominated early exchanges with shots from Fabio Carvalho, Salah and Wataru Endo. Elliot missed a good chance before Szoboszlai’s goal. The second half saw many substitutions, which disrupted the rhythm.

Nabil Fekir hit the side netting from a free-kick and Carvalho had a shot saved by former Liverpool goalkeeper Adrian. Defender Conor Bradley stood out, linking well with Salah and creating numerous chances. Carvalho, eager to impress after a loan spell at Hull City, also had several dangerous moments. Slot’s youthful substitutes including Trey Nyoni impressed with their energy and skill.

Nyoni, 17, excelled after replacing Jones dictating play and creating a chance for Harvey Blair. Liverpool’s youthful lineup was due to the club’s policy of giving players from Euro 2024 and Copa America their full three-week holiday, in line with FIFPro’s recommendations. Ibrahim Konate and Diogo Jota will return early due to minimal involvement in their national teams. Slot downplayed concerns over Jones’ injury, indicating it might not be serious.

In their next friendlies, Liverpool will face Arsenal in Philadelphia and Manchester United in Columbia on August 4.