Analysis The numbers behind the result
Liverpool edge seven-goal thriller despite Villarreal's early spark
The result was deserved, with Liverpool edging Villarreal in both expected goals (2.41 to 1.59) and shots on target (7 to 5), reflecting their dominance in chance creation. Despite Villarreal's early flurry, with Georges Mikautadze opening the scoring in the 4th minute and Sergi Cardona adding a second in the 29th, Liverpool's persistence paid off as they overturned the deficit and secured victory.
Liverpool's attacking intent was clear, with 22 total shots and 7 corners compared to Villarreal's 14 and 2 respectively. Alexis Mac Allister was pivotal, netting twice in the 36th and 65th minutes, while Florian Wirtz’s goal in the 68th minute proved decisive. Villarreal’s clinical start didn’t translate into sustained pressure, with their possession (47%) failing to generate enough high-quality chances.
The key stat was Liverpool’s 53% possession translating into a higher xG (2.41), showing their ability to turn control into effective attacking output, despite an early scare from Villarreal’s fast start.