According to a report by Flashscore on Saturday October 17, 2026, Liverpool endured a frustrating first half against Brentford, trailing 1-0 at the break after Keane Lewis-Potter scored a late opener.

The Reds struggled to convert their attacking opportunities, with several players failing to deliver the required quality in the final third.

1. Alexander Isak

Alexander Isak struggled to make his opportunities count against Brentford. In the 23rd minute, the Liverpool striker connected with a cross from Alexis Mac Allister and rose above his marker inside the penalty area. However, his header sailed high over the crossbar instead of testing the goalkeeper. Isak also found himself in an offside position just three minutes into the match, disrupting an early attacking move. His inability to direct his header towards the target was disappointing for Liverpool, who needed greater precision in front of goal.

2. Alexis Mac Allister

Alexis Mac Allister failed to make the most of his opportunities during the first half. In the 15th minute, the midfielder collected a corner-kick delivery and attempted a quick strike from the edge of the penalty area. His effort, however, flew well over the crossbar. Mac Allister also overhit a long pass intended for Victor Munoz in the 13th minute, allowing Brentford to recover possession. Although he later delivered the cross that created Isak's headed opportunity, his inconsistent execution prevented him from having a more effective half.

3. Bradley Barcola

Bradley Barcola had a frustrating first half despite finding promising positions in attack. In the 20th minute, he worked his way through Brentford's defence but sent his close-range effort narrowly wide of the left post. He also saw a pass into the penalty area blocked five minutes earlier. His struggles continued in the 31st minute when he received a yellow card for a harsh challenge. Barcola showed attacking intent, but his missed opportunity and unnecessary booking made his first-half performance disappointing.

4. Dominik Szoboszlai

Dominik Szoboszlai endured a difficult first half before being forced off through injury in the 32nd minute. The midfielder missed a promising opportunity in the eighth minute when Florian Wirtz found him unmarked on the edge of the box. Szoboszlai unleashed a powerful shot, but it sailed over the crossbar. His early departure was another setback for Liverpool, who introduced Trey Nyoni in his place. His missed chance and injury disrupted the visitors' efforts to establish control.