Liverpool’s 4-2 loss to AC Milan in Hong Kong was more than just a pre-season runout — it was a reality check.
While the final score may not count for much in July, the issues on the pitch were plain to see.
Loose defending, midfield gaps, and missed chances cost the Reds, despite exciting flashes from youngsters like Rio Ngumoha and summer signing Florian Wirtz.
The match began with Liverpool looking sharp in possession, but Milan didn’t need long to spot the cracks.
With Luis Diaz and Darwin Nunez not involved and Joe Gomez already sent home injured, Arne Slot was short on options — and Milan took full advantage.
Rafael Leao opened the scoring with a solo run down the left, exposing Liverpool’s patched-up defense.
Still, the Reds hit back. Dominik Szoboszlai fired in a brilliant equaliser after some clever play from Ngumoha, who once again looked fearless against big-name opposition.
The 16-year-old has been turning heads this summer — and not just for his fancy footwork.
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Liverpool’s first-half starting XI vs. second half against AC Milan
Slot rotated heavily at the break. Virgil van Dijk, who took a knock before halftime, was replaced.
Alisson also made way for Giorgi Mamardashvili. In total, nine changes were made. But instead of fresh legs bringing control, things unravelled fast.
Ibrahima Konate and Kostas Tsimikas struggled at center-back. Milan’s Ruben Loftus-Cheek and Noah Okafor scored on quick counters as Liverpool lost shape.
Even Cody Gakpo’s late header couldn’t lift the mood — especially after Mamardashvili handed Okafor a gift with a loose pass for Milan’s fourth.
It’s worth remembering: this wasn’t a full-strength Liverpool side. But the gaps in defense, especially on the counter, suggest Slot still has puzzles to solve — and maybe another defender to sign.
Liverpool first-half XI: Alisson — Stephenson, Gravenberch, Van Dijk, Robertson — Morton (Nyoni 32′), Szoboszlai, Elliott — Salah, Wirtz, Ngumoha
Liverpool second-half XI: Mamardashvili — Bradley, Konate, Tsimikas, Kerkez — Gravenberch (Morton 63′), Jones, Nyoni — Frimpong, Doak, Gakpo.
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