Jeremy Jacquet stole the spotlight as Liverpool secured a morale‑boosting 2-0 victory over Como in their final pre‑season friendly at Anfield. The 21‑year‑old French defender, who joined the club from Rennes in February, made an immediate impact by finding the net just before the break, sealing the second goal and doubling the lead after Cody Gakpo had opened the scoring. The sequence began with Gakpo delivering a precise pass that set up Jacquet for an easy tap‑in. The youngster celebrated his first goal for the Reds before being substituted at halftime for fellow newcomer Ronald Araujo.
The change in personnel slowed the tempo, a shift that suited the Italian side, who began to dominate possession in the second half. Liverpool had previously squandered a two‑goal advantage against Monaco, but this time they avoided a repeat.
Even Ryan Gravenberch managed to hit the crossbar in the closing stages. Alongside Gakpo and Jacquet, Jeremie Frimpong and Rio Ngumoha also impressed, showcasing the depth and versatility of Andoni Iraola’s squad.
Some players, however, still have work to do. Alexander Isak, who had found the net against Monaco, missed an early chance against Liverpool, striking the post, while Florian Wirtz’s attempts were largely speculative.
Their performances will be scrutinised ahead of the next match at St James’ Park. Key moments of the game included: - 8' – Isak’s effort bounced off the far post. - 23' – Frimpong delivered a brilliant pass to Gakpo, who put Liverpool ahead.
- 44' – Gakpo floated a cross for Jacquet, who calmly tapped it home. - 58' – Rodriguez’s shot for Como rattled the side netting. - 85' – Diao’s clearance struck Liverpool’s crossbar on a counter‑attack.
- 89' – Szoboszlai’s through‑ball found Gravenberch, who hit the bar. Jacquet’s name was announced with great fanfare as the teams lined up, and Anfield gave him a warm reception. He responded by delivering a performance that could earn him a starting berth against Newcastle next week. Within the first half‑minute, Jacquet showcased his intent with purposeful passes that added vigor to a Liverpool backline that had sometimes appeared sluggish under Arne Slot’s previous regime.
Approximately 15 minutes in, the Kop erupted as Jacquet executed a robust challenge, holding off his opponent in a subsequent duel for the ball. His composure and underlying steel were evident, even though a mis‑timed tackle just before the 30‑minute mark required Frimpong to cover for him.
A slightly errant clearance followed, but Jacquet redeemed himself with a vital interception inside his own area. The decisive goal arrived just before the interval: Gakpo’s cross was met by Jacquet, who slotted the ball home, capping a strong first‑half display.
He was withdrawn at halftime to make way for Araujo, who arrived on loan but is expected to compete with Jacquet for a long‑term defensive role. The statistics highlighted Ibrahima Konaté’s quickness, yet his legs sometimes needed time to accelerate, underscoring the need for a partner with pace alongside captain Virgil van Dijk, now 35. Jacquet appears to fulfil that requirement, offering both speed and composure. Andoni Iraola praised the team’s performance, stating: "We needed the confidence of keeping a clean sheet and taking the win.
The first half was stronger than the second, but we maintained our organisation and composure. Finishing with a clean sheet was essential before the season starts." He continued, "We are better than last week. I hope we improve further next week.
Many players completed the full 90 minutes without cramps, which is a good sign. The second half still needs work, but the overall attitude has been excellent. We are asking the squad to adjust their approach, especially off the ball, and they are responding well. We are not perfect, but the willingness to align and improve is evident." Regarding Jacquet, Iraola added, "Jeremy performed exceptionally well, and Ronald also impressed when he came on.
Jeremie Frimpong delivered a solid performance, contributing both offensively and defensively. The back line showed several strong displays." Beyond the match report, the friendly served as a valuable testing ground for Liverpool’s new acquisitions and tactical tweaks ahead of the Premier League campaign. The integration of Jacquet and Araujo suggests a strategic shift toward a more dynamic and resilient defensive unit, capable of handling high‑pressing opponents while maintaining composure under pressure.
Looking forward, Liverpool will aim to build on this momentum in their upcoming league fixture at Newcastle United’s St James’ Park. The performance of recent signings, the fitness levels displayed, and the tactical adjustments under Iraola will all be crucial factors as the Reds seek to challenge for titles this season. Fans can continue to follow Liverpool news, stream Premier League action with NOW, and stay connected via Sky Sports on WhatsApp.
For those looking for extra excitement, there is a Super 6 competition offering a chance to win £1 million, with free entry available.