Liverpool conquer Real Madrid, ahead of meeting with fragile Man City
Nov 28, 2024
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Rory Smith, a seasoned football journalist, joins humorist Duncan Alexander, in-depth analyst Tom Williams, and Pep Guardiola expert Pol Ballus. They dissect Liverpool's impressive 2-0 win over Real Madrid, celebrating Mo Salah's brilliance. The conversation shifts to a struggling Man City, unraveling the psychological toll on Guardiola amidst injuries. The trio also dive into Arsenal's momentum and transformative moments from recent Premier League matches, along with quirky tales of managerial changes, making for a lively and insightful football discussion.
Liverpool’s 2-0 victory against Real Madrid exemplified their strong defensive strategy and effective new management under Arnie Slott.
Manchester City’s current struggles are compounded by injuries and psychological challenges, raising concerns about their ability to regain form.
Chelsea's young team shows potential for title contention, but inconsistency remains a significant hurdle in competing with top rivals.
Deep dives
Partnership with BetMGM
The episode highlights a new partnership with BetMGM, emphasizing the advantages for listeners who sign up using the exclusive bonus code THEATHLETIC. This partnership includes incentives such as a one-year subscription to The Athletic and an enticing first bet offer up to $1,500. Listeners are encouraged to download the BetMGM app, make a minimum deposit, and place their first bet to take advantage of these offers. This collaboration aims to enhance the sports betting experience, encouraging participation in a more interactive sports culture.
Liverpool's Victory Over Real Madrid
A key focus of the episode was Liverpool's impressive 2-0 victory against Real Madrid at Anfield, showcasing a remarkable performance from the team. Liverpool's strategy, characterized by a controlled start, evolved into a dominating presence, ultimately suffocating Madrid's attempts to score. Notably, Kiva Kelleher made significant contributions, including saving a penalty, which highlighted Liverpool's defensive prowess. Additionally, the game signified a smooth transition under the new management of Arnie Slott, reflecting the team's potential for growth.
Manchester City's Ongoing Struggles
The episode delved into Manchester City's dramatic 3-3 draw with Feyenoord, highlighting a historic failure to secure a win after leading 3-0 late in the match. Current injuries to crucial players like Rodri and Kevin De Bruyne have severely impacted the team's form, leaving them struggling to replicate past successes. The discussion pointed out the psychological toll this has taken on the players, as they seem unable to close out games effectively. This season's challenges have raised concerns about the team's overall quality and may force a rebuilding phase sooner than anticipated.
Chelsea's Title Aspirations
Chelsea's recent performance in the league and their potential title aspirations were thoroughly analyzed, noting their competitive position just below the traditional top teams. While Chelsea's young team shows great promise, inconsistency remains an issue that could impede their chances of a sustained title challenge. The upcoming match against a strong Aston Villa side will be a key indicator of whether Chelsea can contend with established rivals. Fans and analysts alike are eager to see if this match helps solidify their status as title contenders or highlights their ongoing struggles.
Previews and Expectations for Upcoming Matches
As the weekend approaches, the episode provided a thorough preview of significant matches including Liverpool vs. Manchester City and Chelsea vs. Aston Villa. With tight competition across the league, each fixture carries weight in the title race standings, particularly Liverpool's chance to maintain their lead against an injury-plagued City. Additionally, the return of players and varying forms of both Chelsea and Aston Villa add another layer of intrigue. The episode concluded by emphasizing the unpredictability of this season's Premier League, suggesting that fans can expect exciting and competitive matchups.
Jimbo welcomes Rory Smith, Duncan Alexander and Tom Williams into the studio after another incredible week in the football.
Liverpool take down Real Madrid 2-0 to maintain their 100% record in the Champions League, as Kylian Mbappe has another nightmare night for the visitors. How many more Anfield nights will Mo Salah experience?
Next up for the Reds, fragile Man City who are in full-on crisis after letting a three-goal lead slip against Feyenoord. Pol Ballus joins us to try and get inside the mind of Pep Guardiola.
Elsewhere in the Premier League, free-scoring Arsenal travel to a possibly resurgent West Ham while Chelsea look to show their title credentials at home to Aston Villa.
Plus Van Nistelrooy to Leicester, Lampard to Coventry and the most middle-class looking footballer in Europe.
Produced by Charlie Jones.
RUNNING ORDER:
• PART 1: Liverpool 2-0 Real Madrid (05.00)
• PART 2: The state of Man City with Pol Ballus (19.00)
• PART 3 : Arsenal, Aston Villa and more Champions League (37.00)
• PART 4a: Chelsea’s title hopes and Van Nistelrooy to Leicester (52.00)
• PART 4b: The rest of the Premier League weekend (62.00)