Liverpool emphatically ended their four-match losing streak with a commanding 5–1 Champions League victory over Eintracht Frankfurt, led by a fine display from Hugo Ekitike, who scored on his return to his former club.
The French striker, who netted 26 goals in 64 appearances for Frankfurt before his summer move to Anfield, sparked Liverpool’s comeback after the hosts had taken an early lead — their eighth consecutive match conceding first.
Manager Arne Slot made bold tactical changes, pairing Ekitike with Alexander Isak for the first time while handing a start to Florian Wirtz in midfield. Notably, Mohamed Salah began on the bench, as Slot looked to shake up a side struggling for form.
Frankfurt drew first blood when Rasmus Kristensen’s shot deflected in off the inside of the post following a defensive lapse. But Liverpool’s response was swift. A misplaced cross from Nathaniel Brown allowed Andy Robertson to release Ekitike, who surged from his own half to calmly slot past goalkeeper Michael Zetterer, marking his 300th away goal for Liverpool in European competition.
That equalizer reignited Liverpool’s confidence. Before halftime, centre-backs Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konaté both struck from corners — Van Dijk rising highest to meet Wirtz’s delivery, before Konaté followed suit minutes later to make it 3–1.
In the second half, Liverpool’s control grew stronger. Wirtz, enjoying a brilliant return to German soil, orchestrated play from midfield and created chances almost at will. His pinpoint cross set up Cody Gakpo for the fourth goal, before Dominik Szoboszlai drilled home a 25-yard strike to complete the rout.
Slot’s side showed balance and determination rarely seen in recent weeks, blending youthful energy with veteran composure. For Ekitike, the goal against his former club capped a perfect homecoming, while for Liverpool, the win ended a dismal run and restored belief ahead of a crucial domestic run.
Eintracht Frankfurt, meanwhile, extended their miserable defensive form, conceding five goals for the second consecutive Champions League match — and facing growing pressure as their European campaign begins to unravel.
Source: Wesleyannews.com
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