Liverpool began the Andoni Iraola era with a 4-2 victory over Sunderland in their opening pre-season fixture on Saturday. The Reds recovered from an early setback and overturned a second-half deficit to secure a successful start under their new head coach.
The afternoon did not begin smoothly after Joe Gomez was forced off through injury inside the opening seven minutes. Despite the disruption, Liverpool quickly settled into the contest and responded with an opening goal before eventually finishing the match strongly.
Joe Gomez’s injury and Liverpool’s early response
Liverpool suffered an early blow when Joe Gomez had to leave the pitch after only seven minutes because of injury.
The unexpected substitution did not unsettle the team, which continued to play with confidence despite the change in personnel.
Shortly after Gomez’s exit, Harvey Elliott created the opening goal by setting up Kieran Morrison following a swift move that started from the back, giving Liverpool an early advantage.
Liverpool vs Sunderland turns after second-half comeback
Sunderland fought back to level the match before moving 2-1 ahead shortly after the restart, putting Liverpool under pressure early in the second half.
The Reds answered through Dominik Szoboszlai, whose long-range strike restored parity and shifted the momentum back in Liverpool’s favour.
With the scores level once again, Liverpool continued to push forward in search of the winner as the contest opened up.
Federico Chiesa and Lewis Koumas seal Iraola’s first win
Federico Chiesa completed Liverpool’s comeback by finishing from a tight angle to put the Reds back in front.
Lewis Koumas added another goal later in the match to wrap up the performance and secure a 4-2 victory.
The result ensured Andoni Iraola’s first match as Liverpool head coach ended in a win, providing a positive opening to the club’s pre-season campaign.