Darwin Nunez scored twice in stoppage time as Premier League leaders Liverpool left it late to claim a 2-0 victory at Brentford. The Uruguayan striker, who came off the bench, provided the decisive touch with a close-range finish and followed up with another goal just two minutes later, sealing the match for the Reds.
Brentford had dominated early moments of the game, showcasing their quick transition play with Bryan Mbeumo being particularly troublesome. Mbeumo's efforts forced Liverpool's left-back Kostas Tsimikas to earn an early yellow card. The home team nearly broke the deadlock several times, including attempts from Christian Norgaard and Mikkel Damsgaard, but Liverpool's goalkeeper Alisson remained resolute.
Despite the early threat, Liverpool began to control the match, dominating possession and launching numerous attacks. Dominik Szoboszlai's powerful strike hit the crossbar, leaving the players and fans on the edge of their seats. The first signs of frustration appeared as the match edged toward the final minutes, with Liverpool struggling to find the breakthrough.
After 90 minutes of relentless pressure with 36 shots at goal, Liverpool’s substitute Nunez finally turned the tide. Following Trent Alexander-Arnold's smart delivery during added time, Nunez found space inside the area and clinically smashed the ball past Brentford keeper Mark Flekken.
If fans thought the drama was over, they were soon proven wrong. Just minutes later, with Brentford pushing forward desperately seeking a goal, Nunez struck again on the counter, putting the game beyond doubt and delighting the traveling Liverpool supporters.
The significance of Nunez’s performance cannot be overstated, particularly as Liverpool had drawn their last two league matches against Manchester United and Nottingham Forest. His late goals not only secured three points but also asserted Liverpool's position at the top of the Premier League by extending their lead to seven points.
After the match, Liverpool manager Arne Slot praised Nunez's impact as a substitute. “He brings energy and power. Most of our games, the first hour is often open, but the last 30 minutes we are dominant. To have someone like Darwin is nice to have,” Slot remarked. His trust in Nunez seemed vindicated after the striker delivered two crushing blows to Brentford, ending doubts around his performance and potential.
The home side, having just earned a commendable draw against Manchester City prior to this match, had displayed strength against top-tier opposition. Brentford’s manager Thomas Frank acknowledged the challenge, stating, “Liverpool are a level above... They're huge favorites to win it.” His side put up strong resistance but fell short against Liverpool's dominating display.
Nunez’s performance, especially after receiving criticism from home fans comparing him unfavorably to former Liverpool striker Andy Carroll, proved to be not only cathartic but also defining. Fans chanted out the mockery only to see Nunez earn his moment of redemption, indicating he is more than the derisive chants suggested.
Although he had shown moments of frustration earlier, including missing some significant chances, his late-game heroics shifted the tide of the match. This performance could significantly influence his standing within the Liverpool squad, particularly with the intense scrutiny faced due to his £85 million transfer fee.
Liverpool's next opponents will certainly take notice of the newfound resolve and confidence Nunez showcased. These moments of brilliance can only serve to bolster the team's ambitions as they pursue the Premier League title this season.
Nunez’s late goals represented much more than mere statistics; they provided moral and psychological boosts for the team and its supporters. For Liverpool, Sundays like this can define seasons, and it appears Darwin Nunez is finally ready to embrace his role and live up to the expectations set upon him.
Following this match, as Liverpool continues their title chase, the question now is: can the Reds maintain their form and push for the championship with Nunez potentially at the forefront of their attacking strategy?