Photo: Humphrey Bolton / CC BY-SA 2.0 / Wikimedia Commons
Liverpool closed out their 2026-27 pre-season programme with a 2-0 win over Como 1907 at Anfield on Sunday, with head coach Andoni Iraola pointing to defensive solidity and positive individual displays as the main takeaways.
Cody Gakpo and debutant Jeremy Jacquet scored in the first half to secure the result. It was the second fixture between the two clubs on the day, a morning meeting at the AXA Training Centre having ended goalless.
"I think we need a little bit this feeling of finishing with a clean sheet, winning the game," Iraola said. "Still, the first half has been better than the second, but at least we kept our organisation, our composure and we found a way to finish with a clean sheet, 2-0. I think we needed this feeling before we start."
Iraola singled out new signings Jacquet and Ronald Araujo, both making their first appearances for the club. Jeremie Frimpong also drew praise for playing the full 90 minutes at right-back, contributing offensively while maintaining defensive discipline.
"I think Jeremy played really well. Also Ronald played really well when he came in. When you have two new faces, first game for both, they do so well," the head coach said.
On fitness, Iraola noted progress across the squad but acknowledged second halves remain an area for improvement. Several players completed 80 to 90 minutes without apparent physical issues, which he described as an encouraging sign ahead of the season.
Liverpool face Newcastle United in their Premier League opener, with Iraola confirming the club has two to three full training weeks to refine shape and build cohesion among new arrivals. "We need to build relationships, the players to have this option to solve problems by themselves in the pitch," he said.
Iraola expressed satisfaction with the squad's attitude toward his methods, particularly in defensive organisation. "I am asking them to do things that are a little bit different – especially without the ball – and I think they are trying to get it," he said. "I'm very happy with their attitude, their willingness to be on the same page, and we will get there."