Liverpool secured a 2-0 victory over Italian side Como 1907 in their final pre-season friendly match at Anfield on Sunday, August 16, 2026. Cody Gakpo and debutant Jeremy Jacquet scored the goals, providing a positive end to the Reds' summer preparations. This win offers a timely confidence boost for manager Andoni Iraola's squad as they look ahead to the new Premier League season.[liverpoolecho+4]
New Defenders Shine on Anfield Debuts
Two new Liverpool defenders made significant impacts during the match, easing some pre-season concerns about defensive depth. Jeremy Jacquet, making his debut, scored Liverpool's second goal in the 43rd minute with a close-range tap-in, assisted by Cody Gakpo.Jacquet delivered an "outstanding" performance throughout the game, drawing applause for his strong defensive work and comfort on the ball.[liverpoolecho+9]
Ronald Araujo also made his debut, coming on at halftime for Jacquet.Manager Andoni Iraola praised both new recruits, stating that "both of them" played "really well" in their first appearances.Iraola highlighted Jacquet's strong play and Araujo's good showing after coming on.This suggests the new additions are quickly integrating into the squad.[liverpoolfc+3]
Another standout defensive performance came from Jeremie Frimpong, who played the full 90 minutes at right-back.Frimpong provided the cross for Gakpo's opening goal and demonstrated "better defensive discipline" throughout the match.His versatility and defensive contributions were noted as key to Liverpool's clean sheet.[liverpoolfc+7]
Gakpo's Goal and Assist Drive Reds' Attack
Cody Gakpo proved instrumental in Liverpool's attack, scoring the opening goal and assisting the second. He found the net in the 23rd minute with a "razor-sharp finish" after receiving a cross from Jeremie Frimpong.Gakpo then turned provider, setting up Jeremy Jacquet's debut goal just before halftime.[liverpoolecho+6]
Gakpo's performance earned him a high Sofascore rating of 9.4, reflecting his significant impact on the game.His contributions on the left flank were described as "another good showing," indicating his readiness for the competitive season.This strong pre-season form suggests Gakpo will be a key player in Liverpool's attacking lineup.[sofascore+1]
While Liverpool were more efficient with their chances, Como held more possession with 58 percent of the ball.Como also had more total shots, 14 to Liverpool's 10, but Liverpool converted two of their three big chances.Other attacking players like Florian Wirtz showed flashes of quality, hitting the post from the edge of the area.Alexander Isak also had early chances, threatening to open the scoring within the first 15 minutes.[sofascore+4]
Iraola's Pre-Season Verdict and Season Outlook
Manager Andoni Iraola expressed satisfaction with the team's performance, particularly securing a win and a clean sheet. He emphasized the importance of "this feeling of finishing with a clean sheet, winning the game" before the start of the Premier League season.This victory comes after a challenging pre-season for Liverpool, which included defeats to Leeds United and Monaco, where the team "suffered bruising defeats."Iraola had previously admitted his side was "struggling physically" during earlier pre-season matches.[liverpoolfc+2]
Despite the positive result against Como, Iraola noted areas for improvement. He observed that the "first half has been better than the second" and stressed the need for better second-half performances.The manager highlighted the importance of continuing to build fitness levels and maintaining focus to avoid mistakes, especially when players are not at their freshest.[liverpoolfc+1]
Tactically, some concerns were noted regarding the midfield balance, with Ryan Gravenberch and Dominik Szoboszlai sometimes not staying back to sense danger.Como had a period in the first half where they managed several shots from the edge of the area.However, Liverpool's defensive discipline improved, particularly with key interventions from players like Frimpong and Jacquet.[liverpoolecho+3]
With their pre-season program now concluded, Liverpool will turn their attention to their Premier League opener. They are scheduled to face Newcastle United away on August 23.The victory over Como, coupled with impressive debuts and a clean sheet, provides a foundation of confidence for Iraola's team as they prepare for the competitive campaign.[liverpoolfc+2]
