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#3 A night to forget for Roberto Firmino
Often labelled as the weak link in Liverpool’s front-three, Roberto Firmino, didn’t do much against Leeds United to put that perception to bed.
The Brazilian looked off the pace and was unable to cause Leeds too many problems in the final-third. His passes weren’t connecting, his movement was stale and when he did get the opportunity to score, he fluffed his lines. He’s quite fortunate that his other teammates were a lot sharper than he was.
Last season, the 28-year-old could only score nine league goals despite playing every single game of the campaign. Against Leeds, Firmino misplaced six shots, had two shots blocked and lost possession 12 times.
#2 Leeds impressed with their style of football
It’s no secret that Marcelo Bielsa is one of the most respected coaches in the world. The 66-year-old has immensely influenced the careers of Pep Guardiola and Mauricio Pochettino. His attention to detail and insistence on working on the finest margins is what sets him apart. His imprint could be seen all over Leeds’ performance against the Premier League champions as the Whites gave Liverpool a taste of their own medicine.
Off the ball, Bielsa’s men matched Liverpool with a man-for-man press that suffocated the Reds and deprived them time and space on the ball. In possession, Leeds were bold and brave, like they’ve always been, committing several men in attack. The visitors may have ultimately lost the game, but in recent seasons, not many teams have scored three goals at Anfield and enjoyed 52% of possession.
#1 Mohamed Salah becomes the first Liverpool player to score a Premier League opening-day hat-trick
It looks as though Mohamed Salah has his heart set on winning this season’s Golden Boot. The Egyptian’s electric performance gave the Leeds United defence problems all game. His final-third movement, link-up play and eagerness to shoot made him Liverpool’s most dangerous player against Leeds United.
The 28-year-old scored his third Premier League hat-trick, which happened to be the first opening-day hat-trick by a Liverpool pla in the Premier League era. Two penalties and a rocket in the top corner capped off a match-winning performance from the winger. During the game, Salah completed seven dribbles, won nine ground duels, created four chances and scored three goals.
