Liverpool endured a heartbreaking 2-1 loss at Stamford Bridge, their third overall loss and second straight Premier League defeat in stoppage time. To give up again in the final minute was difficult to accept, admitted Cody Gakpo, who had levelled Moises Caicedo’s early second-half opener. He thought about the game and his team’s need for a turnaround.
Struggling to Maintain Momentum
Cody Gakpo acknowledged that Liverpool tried to compete after falling behind early on, but struggled to maintain momentum.. “After the goal, we had the momentum. I think if we kept pushing, maybe we could score 2-1,” he added. He added that Chelsea’s counter-attacks gave them the initiative again, which eventually enabled Estevao to score in the last minute. The striker pointed out the challenge of giving away a late goal again but appreciated the team’s second-half work, hinting that their performance still had positives amidst the disappointment.
Confidence and Team Cohesion
To tackle concerns over confidence, Gakpo emphasized perspective. “Things don’t go our way now as they did five games ago,” he added. But that’s football, and we’ve got to take it on the chest and keep going.” He also emphasized their unity and how aware the players are of the stakes, and the necessity of a swift, purposeful response. Gakpo believes that the key to this is performance analysis, hard training and focus as a squad.
Author’s Opinion
Gakpo’s honest review demonstrates a player who is conscious of setbacks but committed to making a difference. Liverpool’s latest disappointments are signs that something is a bit off when it comes to their momentum and also, at times, the finishing – but they are still a class above and have mental toughness. If they can cure their lack of focus at critical times, players such as Gakpo could be key in instigating a turnaround to their season.
