A 3-2 defeat at Anfield on Sunday has left new Liverpool manager Andoni Iraola with plenty of defensive puzzles to solve as pre-season preparations enter their final stretch. Despite high-profile returns to the starting side, the Reds suffered a frustrating home setback against Ligue 1 outfit AS Monaco, marking their second consecutive friendly loss after a 4-2 defeat to Leeds United on their tour of the United States.
The Story at a Glance
Liverpool fell 3-2 to AS Monaco at Anfield in Andoni Iraola’s first match in charge on home soil. While the German playmaker Florian Wirtz put the Reds up 2-0 early, Monaco fought back to seal the win. The match highlighted Liverpool's growing attacking fluidity under Iraola's high-pressing system, balanced against an unstable defense that has surrendered seven goals across its last two friendly outings.
How the Story Developed
Fresh off three pre-season matches in the United States—which included victories over Sunderland and Wrexham alongside a 4-2 defeat to Leeds United—Liverpool returned to Merseyside seeking a firm response. Iraola integrated experienced stars into his starting line-up, as Alisson and Virgil van Dijk returned following post-World Cup breaks. German star Florian Wirtz gave the Reds early control, capitalizing on a spilled ball from Monaco goalkeeper Lukas Hradecky to double Liverpool’s advantage to 2-0 after having previously netted against Leeds.
However, defensive frailties surfaced as Monaco gradually turned the tide. The visiting French team took advantage of Liverpool’s makeshift backline, exploiting central spaces to pull off a dramatic 3-2 comeback victory at Anfield.
Key People and Details
Iraola’s task has been hampered by a raft of squad absences. Long-term injuries have sidelined Wataru Endō, Conor Bradley, Giovanni Leoni, Stefan Bajčetić, and Hugo Ekitiké, while defender Joe Gomez suffered a setback during the U.S. tour. Furthermore, midfielder Alexis Mac Allister remains away following his run to the World Cup final with Argentina. As a result, youth prospects such as Ifeanyi Ndukwe and Luke Chambers have stepped up to cover first-team minutes.
For Monaco, who were coming off a 1-0 penalty win over Getafe thanks to Paris Brunner, the match served as crucial preparation for life without transfer target Maghnes Akliouche, who officially signed with Paris Saint-Germain.
Reaction and Response
While Germany manager Jürgen Klopp will take positive notes from Florian Wirtz’s continued scoring form, the result leaves Liverpool with defensive work to complete before the Premier League season begins. Iraola’s offensive setup has produced plenty of highlights, but the high line without adequate midfield protection continues to expose a depleted defense.
What to Watch
With just a fortnight left before their Premier League opener, Liverpool will remain at Anfield to wrap up their pre-season schedule. Supporters will closely monitor whether new signing Victor Muñoz and defender Jérémy Jacquet get more minutes to integrate into the backline, and whether Iraola can balance his aggressive pressing game with structural security behind the ball.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the final score between Liverpool and Monaco?
AS Monaco defeated Liverpool 3-2 at Anfield in their pre-season friendly on Sunday, August 9.
Who scored for Liverpool during the match?
Florian Wirtz scored to give Liverpool a temporary 2-0 lead after reacting quickly when Monaco goalkeeper Lukas Hradecky failed to hold the ball.
Which Liverpool stars returned to the team for this game?
Goalkeeper Alisson and captain Virgil van Dijk both returned to the starting lineup after completing their post-World Cup breaks.
Why was Liverpool missing several key players?
Liverpool were without injured players Wataru Endō, Conor Bradley, Giovanni Leoni, Stefan Bajčetić, Hugo Ekitiké, and Joe Gomez, while Alexis Mac Allister is still away after reaching the World Cup final with Argentina.