Liverpool were forced to settle for another 2-2 draw against Nottingham Forest at Anfield, leaving new manager Andoni Iraola still searching for his first Premier League win. But beyond the result, Victor Muñoz’s late equaliser offered Liverpool something important: proof that the new-look squad can still find answers when matches go wrong.
Forest Expose Liverpool’s Early Problems
Nottingham Forest showed little fear at Anfield and took the lead in the 24th minute. Dan Ndoye finished a quick counterattack after Morgan Gibbs-White released him behind the Liverpool defence.
Liverpool had plenty of possession but struggled to turn it into clear chances. Florian Wirtz appeared to have scored before half-time, but the goal was ruled out after VAR found an offside in the build-up.
The first half raised familiar questions about whether Iraola’s Liverpool are organised enough defensively to compete at the top of the Premier League.
Isak and Muñoz Provide the Response
Liverpool improved after the break and Alexander Isak scored in the 60th minute, finishing from Cody Gakpo’s low cross. It was an important moment for the expensive striker, who is expected to become one of the main attacking figures in Iraola’s Liverpool project.
Forest, however, regained the advantage when Alisson brought down Neco Williams in the box. Gibbs-White converted the resulting penalty to make it 2-1. Just when another frustrating defeat appeared likely, Muñoz stepped forward.
The summer signing produced a powerful finish in the 82nd minute, with Florian Wirtz providing the assist. His first Liverpool goal secured another comeback and prevented Forest from leaving Anfield with three points.
What the Draw Means for Iraola
The biggest concern for Liverpool is that this is their second 2-2 draw in two Premier League games under Iraola. They also had to recover from behind against Newcastle in the opening match.
The positive is that Liverpool are creating enough moments to rescue games. The bigger issue is why they keep putting themselves in danger in the first place.
With new attacking reinforcements reportedly arriving, Iraola now has to improve the defensive structure while finding a consistent attacking rhythm. Liverpool have two points from their opening two matches, so the pressure for a first win is already building.
