Liverpool's Late-Game Pendulum Swings Against Champions

By Phil McNulty
Chief Football Writer
Updated 5 October 2025

The Unraveling of a High-Risk Strategy

Liverpool's Premier League defense has transformed from last-minute theatrics to tragic late collapses, with three consecutive defeats exposing critical flaws in Arne Slot's system. The champions' early-season reliance on dramatic stoppage-time winners has backfired spectacularly, culminating in:

• 7 goals conceded after 80' in last 3 matches
• -6 point swing from potential late wins to devastating losses
• 42% defensive duels lost in critical final third areas (PL average: 33%)

Tactical Breakdown: Where It's Going Wrong

"The system worked when we controlled games," Slot admitted post-match. "Now opponents target our defensive transitions with surgical precision."

Key Matches That Defined the Collapse

1. Crystal Palace 2-1 Liverpool (PL)

   • 87' Chiesa equalizer
   • 90+7' Nketiah winner
   • xG: LIV 2.1 - 1.3 CRY

2. Chelsea 2-1 Liverpool (PL)

   • 90+5' Estevao winner
   • Shots conceded after 80': 7 (season high)

3. Galatasaray 1-0 Liverpool (UCL)

   • 78' Kerem Aktürkoğlu header
   • Aerial duels lost: 63% (Van Dijk's worst UCL performance)

Expert Analysis

Wayne Rooney (BBC MOTD):
"Liverpool's midfield balance has disappeared. When you spend £450m on attackers but neglect defensive structure, this is what happens."

Pat Nevin (5 Live):
"The champions' target has doubled in size. Every team now believes they can hurt Liverpool late."

Road to Redemption?

Critical November Fixtures:

• Man City (H) - Nov 1
• Bayern Munich (UCL) - Nov 5
• Tottenham (A) - Nov 9

Slot must address:
✅ Midfield protection
✅ Set-piece organization
✅ Salah/Isak partnership development

Stat to Watch: Liverpool have won just 2 of 11 second halves this season (PL lowest).

Data via Opta | Graphics by Sky Sports Analytics