Liverpool were forced to come from behind twice at Anfield as Victor Muñoz’s late strike secured a 2-2 draw against Nottingham Forest. The result highlighted both the promise of Liverpool’s new arrivals and several defensive problems that remain unresolved.
Liverpool’s latest Premier League outing produced another dramatic comeback, but the 2-2 draw with Nottingham Forest also raised plenty of questions for new head coach Andoni Iraola.
The home side fell behind twice at Anfield before Spanish winger Victor Muñoz produced a superb late equaliser to prevent Liverpool from suffering another defeat against Forest. Muñoz’s performance continued an impressive start to life on Merseyside after his summer move from Osasuna.
Forest Punish Liverpool’s Slow Start
Liverpool struggled to find their rhythm during the opening half, and Nottingham Forest took advantage in the 24th minute.
Igor Jesus won the initial battle after receiving a long ball from goalkeeper Matz Sels before finding Morgan Gibbs-White. The Forest midfielder then released Ndoye, who calmly finished to give the visitors the lead.
Liverpool appeared to have an immediate response when Florian Wirtz found the net, but VAR ruled out the effort after determining that Jeremie Frimpong had been offside during the build-up.
The equaliser eventually arrived through Alexander Isak.
Cody Gakpo produced an excellent piece of individual play before delivering a dangerous low cross, allowing Isak to finish from close range and score his first goal of the season.
But Liverpool's joy was short-lived.
Forest regained the advantage after a quick throw-in caught Liverpool's defence off guard. Neco Williams was brought down by Alisson inside the area, and Gibbs-White confidently converted the resulting penalty.
With Liverpool once again staring at defeat, Muñoz stepped forward.
Victor Muñoz Emerging as an Unexpected Hero
Muñoz arrived from Osasuna for a reported £34 million in June, but he has quickly become one of Liverpool's most intriguing new players.
The 23-year-old winger spent time in the youth systems of both Barcelona and Real Madrid before developing at Osasuna. His direct running and willingness to attack defenders have already made him an important option for Iraola.
His influence was already visible in Liverpool's opening match against Newcastle United, when his late burst helped win a penalty that Dominik Szoboszlai converted.
Against Forest, Muñoz had a frustrating afternoon for long stretches. He failed to complete any of his five attempted dribbles, yet he continued looking for opportunities to attack.
That persistence finally paid off.
Receiving a cleverly threaded pass from Wirtz, Muñoz spun inside the penalty area and unleashed a powerful finish with eight minutes remaining.
It was the kind of individual moment Liverpool desperately needed—and perhaps a glimpse of what the young winger could eventually become for the club.
Bradley Barcola's Arrival Could Change Liverpool's Attack
Liverpool's attacking situation is about to become even more interesting with Bradley Barcola set to arrive from Paris Saint-Germain.
The reported deal is worth £106 million, with potential add-ons taking the package significantly higher. His arrival is expected to provide Liverpool with greater pace, penetration and width in the final third.
That could be exactly what Iraola's side currently lacks.
Liverpool struggled to create consistent openings against Forest, particularly when the visitors defended deep. Barcola's ability to stretch defensive lines could give Liverpool another dimension.
However, Muñoz's emergence means Iraola may suddenly have an interesting selection dilemma on his hands.
Is Cody Gakpo About to Leave Liverpool?
One of the biggest talking points surrounding the match was Cody Gakpo's future.
Gakpo was directly involved in Liverpool's equaliser and once again demonstrated why allowing him to leave could be a risky decision.
The Dutch forward can operate across the front three, making his versatility especially valuable while Hugo Ekitike remains unavailable because of injury. If Isak needs rest during a long campaign, Gakpo could provide a natural alternative.
His contribution against Forest also demonstrated that he can be effective from the right side.
With Liverpool reportedly facing interest from Manchester City and Tottenham, the club now has a difficult decision to make. Barcola's arrival will undoubtedly reduce Gakpo's opportunities on the left, but selling him could leave Liverpool short of attacking depth.
With Ekitike not expected back until after Christmas, Liverpool may want to think carefully before allowing another experienced forward to leave.
Iraola Still Has Defensive Problems to Solve
While Liverpool's attacking talent helped rescue another point, their defensive weaknesses remain a concern.
The problems look familiar.
Liverpool struggled last season against long balls, set pieces and quick transitions, and Forest exposed similar weaknesses at Anfield. Their opening goal came after Liverpool failed to deal with a long delivery and the resulting knockdown.
The second Forest goal was even more concerning.
A quickly taken throw-in caught Liverpool's defence unprepared before Neco Williams won the penalty.
These moments suggest that Iraola still has significant work to do if he wants to establish his preferred style.
The Spaniard is known for aggressive pressing and fast transitions, but Liverpool are likely to face plenty of opponents who sit deep and force them to dominate possession. Learning how to break down those defensive structures will be essential.
A Draw That Feels Like Both a Warning and a Positive
Liverpool will probably view the result with mixed emotions.
Coming from behind twice shows character, while Muñoz's emergence provides genuine excitement for supporters. Isak also opened his account, and Gakpo once again demonstrated his usefulness.
At the same time, conceding two avoidable goals at home shows that Iraola has not yet solved the defensive issues that affected Liverpool last season.
The upcoming weeks should reveal whether these are simply early-season problems or signs of deeper tactical concerns.
For now, Liverpool remain a team with considerable attacking potential—but one still searching for the balance required to turn entertaining comebacks into convincing victories.
Liverpool's Key Takeaways
- Victor Muñoz: Continues to make a strong early impression and rescued Liverpool with a brilliant late goal.
- Alexander Isak: Scored his first goal of the season.
- Cody Gakpo: Produced the assist for Isak and strengthened the argument for keeping him.
- Bradley Barcola: His expected arrival could add much-needed pace and creativity.
- Defence: Long balls, quick throw-ins and transitions remain major concerns.
- Andoni Iraola: Still needs to establish a more effective approach against deep defensive blocks.
Next Premier League fixture: Liverpool are scheduled to visit Ipswich on September 4.
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