Liverpool manager Andoni Iraola admitted his side learned valuable lessons after a dramatic second-half collapse saw the Reds lose 4-2 to Leeds United in their final pre-season match in the United States.
The Reds impressed before the break and went into half-time with a two-goal advantage, but conceded four unanswered goals in the second half as Daniel Farke’s side completed a remarkable comeback in Chicago.
Despite the disappointing result, Iraola believes the defeat exposed areas that need improvement before the new Premier League season begins.
First-half promise undone after the break
Liverpool produced one of their strongest displays under Iraola during the opening 45 minutes, with new arrivals Alexander Isak and Florian Wirtz making encouraging returns.
Luke Chambers opened the scoring in the seventh minute before Wirtz capped an impressive team move to double Liverpool’s advantage before the interval.
However, a series of changes after the break disrupted Liverpool’s rhythm as Leeds took control, exposing defensive frailties and punishing the Reds with four second-half goals.
The collapse highlighted concerns over squad depth, physicality and defending from set-pieces, with an inexperienced backline struggling to cope with Leeds’ attacking pressure.
‘We learned a lot’ – Iraola
Although frustrated by the result, Iraola insisted the defeat would provide important lessons ahead of the competitive campaign.
“I think we learn a lot of things. Obviously it’s not the result you want but I think it was probably the most useful friendly we played – in a positive way in the first half and in a negative way in the second half.
“I think we’ve learned a lot and I think we can take good conclusions and solve some things.”
The Liverpool boss is expected to welcome several senior players back to training in the coming days, including captain Virgil van Dijk, Cody Gakpo, Alisson Becker and new signing Victor Munoz.
Alexis Mac Allister remains on extended leave following Argentina’s run to the 2026 FIFA World Cup final.
