Liverpool's Big Summer Spending Can't Hide Glaring Defensive Flaws in Community Shield Loss
FA Cup champions Crystal Palace stunned Premier League titleholders Liverpool in Sunday's Community Shield clash, with the Eagles triumphing via penalty shootout following an entertaining 2-2 stalemate.
This fixture carried an unusual intensity for what's typically considered an unofficial season opener, as big-spending Liverpool looked to establish an early statement. The Reds managed to take the lead twice during the opening 45 minutes through goals from two fresh acquisitions, yet Palace stayed competitive entering the closing 20 minutes and deserved their second leveling goal.
With no extra time period, the match was settled by penalties for the third consecutive year, and Dean Henderson delivered another Wembley masterclass to help Palace claim this silverware for the first time in their history.
Below are the main observations from the encounter.
Do Liverpool Really Need Alexander Isak?
Liverpool continue pursuing a potentially record-setting transfer for Newcastle United's unsettled Alexander Isak. Yet after witnessing Hugo Ekitiké's Wembley display, questions arise about whether the Reds must spend enormous sums to land the Swedish striker.
The Reds appear to already possess a gem in the former Eintracht Frankfurt attacker, who demonstrated why he began the summer as one of Europe's most highly-regarded young forwards.
His opening strike proved historic, with Ekitiké finding the net within four minutes to give Liverpool the advantage. It represented the type of clinical finish that Bundesliga observers had grown familiar with over the previous 18 months, as the striker converted from an inside-left position after linking up with Florian Wirtz, with whom he appears to share instant chemistry.
While the goal stood out, Ekitiké's entire performance oozed quality. Consider that sublime touch to release Wirtz during the first half, creating a Cody Gakpo opportunity at the far post? He's a complete number nine who doesn't differ significantly in style from Isak. Though there's potential for both to collaborate, adding another expensive attacking piece seems excessive.
Furthermore, Liverpool have other pressing requirements.
Defensive Issues Persist for the Reds
Slot's numerous new additions mean the Dutch manager faces considerable tactical adjustments, and based on summer evidence, he hasn't achieved the proper equilibrium yet.
Liverpool appear magnificent in attack, with their rapid combination play and transitional movement certain to overwhelm opponents. Nevertheless, their focus on central partnerships leaves them exposed to dangerous counter-attacks through their defensive core.
Palace generated limited transition opportunities on Sunday, but found considerable success overloading Liverpool's defensive quartet with their wing-backs. Daniel Muñoz's dynamism proved especially troublesome.
However, the goals originated from Palace's central penetration, with Jean-Philippe Mateta and later Ismaïla Sarr breaking beyond Liverpool's defensive line. Virgil van Dijk, who received Ballon d'Or recognition following an outstanding season, bore responsibility for both concessions. He conceded the penalty, then his mistimed leap allowed Sarr to advance on Alisson's goal unchallenged.
Van Dijk's showing might prove exceptional, but it raises concerns given the current lack of viable alternatives.
Henderson Takes Center Stage
Dean Henderson transforms into a penalty-stopping specialist when performing beneath Wembley's famous arch.
Three months prior, the English keeper thwarted Omar Marmoush from the spot during Palace's 1-0 FA Cup final triumph over Manchester City. On Sunday, Henderson frustrated Alexis Mac Allister and Harvey Elliott from twelve yards to secure another trophy for the previously trophy-less Eagles.
His Mac Allister denial proved exceptional, with the Argentine's attempt requiring Henderson to dive low left to parry it clear. A respectful acknowledgment to the Palace faithful positioned across the stadium followed. Elliott's penalty was more predictable, enabling the goalkeeper to save comfortably.
Henderson's double save came after Mohamed Salah fired wildly over the crossbar for the second consecutive match, giving his team two opportunities to claim victory. Borna Sosa wasted the initial chance, but Justin Devenny converted decisively.
Having watched his squad exit the Champions League via penalties against Paris Saint-Germain this year, Slot will desire fewer such scenarios in 2025-26.