Alexis Mac Allister hailed the growing chemistry between Hugo Ekitike and Florian Wirtz after Liverpool's 6-0 Champions League win, saying the pair are beginning to unlock the Reds' attack. Their direct assists and movement suggest Liverpool will create more high-quality chances — punters might consider backing Liverpool to score over 2.5 goals and Wirtz or Ekitike to register a goal or assist in upcoming fixtures.
Liverpool's New Attacking Partnership Comes of Age in 6-0 Rout
Liverpool cruised into the Champions League knockout stages with a dominant 6-0 victory at Anfield, and Alexis Mac Allister believes the growing connection between Hugo Ekitiké and Florian Wirtz is central to the resurgence. The pair linked up repeatedly, combining with the rest of the team to provide a ruthless attacking display that underlined their threat.
Ekitike and Wirtz: A Teammate Understanding That Pays Off
Ekitiké and Wirtz showed a developing telepathy in the final third, carving open Qarabag with slick, short passes and clever movement. Their interplay directly contributed to several goals, and Mac Allister stressed the squad is adapting tactically to get the best from their talent. "They love playing small passes between each other," he said, praising their immense quality and the team's effort to integrate their strengths.
Mac Allister Double and Missed Hat-trick
Mac Allister was one of the beneficiaries of the fluid attacking display, scoring twice and coming close to a first career hat-trick when he failed to connect properly to a cross from Mohamed Salah. Reflecting on his performance, he admitted he enjoys getting into the box more and welcomed the half-time tactical tweak that pushed him higher up the pitch. "My second goal was a little bit lucky but good, and then I’m still thinking about the third one!" he added.
Tactical Takeaways: Pressing, Positives and Areas to Improve
The intensity and pressing were standout features, particularly in the second half, though Mac Allister conceded the first half left Liverpool a little too open. The squad showed encouraging fitness and work-rate, sprinting back and pressing effectively. The victory offers both confidence and a reminder of the need to analyse mistakes — positives to build on but room for improvement remains.
Fixture Focus: Premier League Tests Loom
Liverpool now switch attention back to the Premier League with two high-profile home fixtures against Newcastle United and Manchester City, followed by a trip to Sunderland over the next fortnight. The manager and players will look to carry the momentum from this Champions League performance into those demanding encounters.
Betting Implications: What Punters Should Consider
The Ekitiké–Wirtz partnership increases Liverpool's expected goals and chance creation, making overs and attacking player markets attractive in upcoming matches—especially against mid- and lower-table opponents.
Consider Liverpool to score 2+ goals or over 2.5 total goals in fixtures where the Reds are favourites, and look at anytime goal/assist markets for Wirtz and Ekitiké.
Exercise caution in elite matchups like Manchester City, where defensive quality can blunt attacking form.
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Alexis Mac Allister has been discussing the growing understanding between Hugo Ekitiké and Florian Wirtz at Liverpool
Liverpool Echo
