Firmino nets brace as Liverpool outclass Osasuna

Liverpool completed pre-season with an easy victory over La Liga side Osasuna on Monday night. After a 1-1 draw with Athletic Bilbao on Sunday, Jurgen Klopp fielded a weaker XI for this fixture, but it was still more than good enough to beat Jagoba Arrasate's men on a night when kick-off was once again delayed due to ticketing issues. 

Jesus Areso deflected Takumi Minamino's shot into his own net in the 14th minute and then Roberto Firmino doubled the lead seven minutes later. The Reds spotted a weakness down Osasuna's right and Firmino netted again in the 41st minute to leave the game beyond doubt. Osasuna fought back in the second period and Kike Garcia reduced the deficit 20 minutes from time, but the damage had already been done. 

Osasuna started the game very brightly and the Liverpool defence were called into action twice in the first five minutes, but that seemed to spark Jurgen Klopp's men into action. Minamino could have scored in the 13th minute when he was one on one with the keeper, but Juan Perez made a fine save. He was not to be denied a minute later though after Fabinho picked him out and Minamino's strike deflected off the defender's leg and over the arm of Perez.

The goal saw Liverpool become even more dominant and it was two when Tsimikas played a one-two with Minamino before sending in a cross which Firmino hit home. There was a big gulf in class and Firmino headed over again with 25 minutes on the clock. Goalkeeper Perez had to make another terrific save in the 38th minute to deny Oxlade-Chamberlain from long range, but Liverpool kept on coming. Minamino was set free on Osasuna's right and he crossed to Firmino in the middle who chested the ball before volleying in.

 

August 9, 2021

In the second half, multiple changes were made by both teams such as the inclusion of Budimir and Ruben Garcia for the visitors as well as a change of goalkeeper while Divock Origi replaced Gordon for the hosts. The Ox had a fantastic game and looked a threat all night. He even went for an audacious rabona in the 54th minute which forced Herrera into an important stop. However, the second period was more even and the visitors got their goal. 

Ruben Garcia sent a superb ball into the back post and new signing Kike Garcia from Eibar headed in. It was a mere consolation as far as the Spanish side were concerned, but it gave him something to remember from his first visit to Anfield. Osasuna continued to threaten and Ruben Garcia thought he had a chance to make it 3-2, but he was unable to turn the ball in and he was offside anyway. 

Liverpool were not done at the other end though and Oxlade-Chamberlain nearly surprised replacement goalie Sergio Herrera at this near post before he set up Rhys Williams four minutes from time. However, the youngster inexplicably missed the target and Klopp's side were unable to add to their tally.

The Reds fully deserved the win and they now travel to Norwich in their first match of the new season on Saturday while Osasuna host Espanyol on the same day.