Reds Safely Secure Win

Liverpool came through an awkward opening to their Champions League campaign with a 1-0 win at home to Hungarian champions Debrecen. The game started brightly for the reds who retained the majority of the possession despite any cutting chances in the final 3rd. Liverpool lacked ideas as a secluded Gerrard played in an unfamiliar midfield role. The Captain played in a much deeper position than were used to seeing him in and lead to a lack of fluency between the midfield and attack. Dirk Kuyt and Yossi Benayoun looked positive in the opening stages and a quick fire move from the pair almost allowed Torres to find the breakthrough only for his shot to be saved. The game opened up slightly as Debrecen began to feel their way into the game almost taking the lead after a lose ball on the edge of the area was almost punished were it not for a clever save from Pepe Reina. However, spaces began to appear and Alberto Riera almost utilized the extra space after a glorious pass from Carragher put him through on goal. The keeper stood up well to make a good save but from the resulting shot Kuyt came agonizingly close with his effort saved off the line. The pressure final broke through as the half was drawing to a close Kuyt was able to pounce on a Torres shot to smash in from 8 yards. A penetrating ball from Gerrard allowed Torres to turn and swivel firing a good shot at the keeper who could only parry the ball into Kuyt's path.

The second half was no different but Liverpool failed to turn their dominating possession into any clear cut chances. Debrecen looked dangerous on the counter attack as the willingness of forward Coulibaly nearly paid off were it not for his miss-control. Despite this, Benitez's side were never really troubled and were able to come away with a good 3 points in their opening game. They will have to pick up their performances though if they are to challenge for the trophy.