Andoni Iraola is impressed by Liverpool’s response in the comeback against Atlético Madrid
Andoni Iraola has praised his side's mentality and character after they came from a goal down to beat Atlético Madrid 2-1 in their Champions League opener at Anfield.
Liverpool fell behind to Marcos Llorente’s 17th-minute goal, but responded before half-time when Dominik Szoboszlai levelled the score. Alexis Mac Allister then completed the comeback shortly after the restart with a powerful strike to give Liverpool all three points.
Iraola admitted that the start was not what he wanted, taking some responsibility for the difficulties caused by Atlético’s unexpected tactical setup. However, he was pleased with the way his players responded after the break and showed the resilience required to turn the game around.
The Liverpool manager also highlighted the influence of the Anfield crowd, particularly during the final stages when Atlético pushed for an equaliser. He said the atmosphere helped the players as they defended their lead while dealing with fatigue.
"Yes, I think today I have to blame myself a little bit for the start of the game. I think Atletico has used a structure that they haven't used before this season and it has cost us a little bit to match up properly. I think until we conceded the goal and we've had a couple of minutes where we've adjusted things and [then] we match up much better. It was the moment where we started playing better.
"Obviously after half-time, you have more time [then], [but] everything was better set. In the second half I think we were the best team. I think the team [and] the players have shown big character - big character. Also, the crowd has helped us massively in the second half. You know, in these kinds of nights you are there doing your job, but you also can enjoy it."
Iraola also singled out Ronald Araújo for praise, describing his performance as “very, very good” and noting that the defender contributed at both ends of the pitch, including the assist for Szoboszlai’s equaliser.
"I think he's been very, very good. The other day [against Ipswich Town] and he has been, I would say, even better today. I think he's defending really well his side, but also sometimes because he's a centre-back we underrate his offensive side. Today he gives a great assist to Dom Szoboszlai.
"He's made a couple of very good serves from his position and I'm very happy with him. Very happy. He's come with the willingness to show that he belongs to this level, and I hope we can keep him there because he's in a lovely place."
The victory extends Liverpool’s unbeaten start under Iraola and gives the Reds a positive beginning to their Champions League campaign.
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