Against All Odds: Legacy Of A Football King-Chapter 293: AZ Alkmaar Vs Liverpool

[And what about the forward line?]

[Well, this is where AZ Alkmaar can really hurt Liverpool, John. Benjamin Rijkaard starts on the left flank, and we know what he’s capable of—pace, trickery, and that eye for a killer pass. Steven Berghuis is on the opposite side, equally dangerous when cutting in. Leading the line is Josmer Volmy Altidore. A strong, powerful striker who will be looking to impose himself on Liverpool’s backline]

[A formidable lineup for AZ Alkmaar. And their bench?]

[A solid set of options if Gertjan Verbeek needs to change things up. Beerens, Overtoom, Aron Johannsson, Adam Maher, Jóhann Guðmundsson, Thomas Lam, and Mathias Johansson. A mix of attacking and defensive reinforcements]

[Alright, Peter, let’s shift our focus to Liverpool. Brendan Rodgers has named a strong eleven, as expected. Walk us through their starting lineup]

[No surprises in goal—Pepe Reina keeps his place between the sticks. The back four features Glen Johnson at right-back, Jamie Carragher and Daniel Agger in central defense, and José Enrique on the left. Experience and composure at the back]

[And their midfield trio?]

[Steven Gerrard, Lucas Leiva, and Jordan Henderson. Gerrard, of course, needs no introduction—Liverpool’s leader, their heartbeat. Lucas is the enforcer, breaking up play, while Henderson adds energy and movement.]

[And that attack, Peter? It’s frightening on paper.]

[It certainly is. Raheem Sterling and Stewart Downing operate out wide, providing the width and pace. And up front? The man AZ Alkmaar’s defense will be most concerned about—Luis Suárez. A nightmare for defenders, quick feet, unpredictable, and deadly in front of goal. Scored a hatrick against them in Anfield two weeks ago]

[Strong from top to bottom. And on their bench?]

[Plenty of firepower waiting in the wings. Brad Jones as the backup goalkeeper, Martin Kelly for defensive cover, Fabio Borini, Jonjo Shelvey, Oussama Assaidi, young talent Suso, and of course, Daniel Sturridge]

[Depth and quality all around. Peter, looking at these two lineups, what stands out to you?]

[It’s a fascinating contrast, John. AZ Alkmaar will look to play their usual attacking game, but they need to be careful not to leave space in behind. Liverpool’s front three thrive on counterattacks, and with Gerrard pulling the strings, they will punish any mistakes]

[And on the flip side, what do AZ Alkmaar have to do to break down this Liverpool side?]

[They need to be brave. Benjamin Rijkaard and Berghuis have the pace and skill to trouble Liverpool’s fullbacks. If they can isolate Carragher—who lacks the speed he once had—and get service into Altidore, they can create problems. Set pieces could also be key; AZ Alkmaar are strong in the air, and Liverpool have struggled with aerial balls this season]

[It’s all set up perfectly, Peter. The handshakes are done, the captains exchange their final words, and the referee is ready to get us underway. The AFAS Stadion is buzzing. AZ Alkmaar versus Liverpool. Europa League, Matchday 4. Kickoff is next!]

The referee glanced at his watch, took a deep breath, and then blew the whistle.

Fweeeee!~

The roar from the crowd was immediate as both teams sprang into action. The ball rolled under the floodlights, the crisp evening air carrying the sound of boots striking leather and the shouts of players organizing themselves.

[And we’re underway here in Alkmaar! AZ Alkmaar, in their traditional red and white, kicking from left to right. Liverpool, in their classic red, immediately pressing high up the pitch. Peter, how do you see this opening few minutes playing out?]

[Well, John, both teams will want to settle quickly. AZ Alkmaar need to be composed in possession. They know Liverpool will press aggressively in the opening minutes, trying to force an early mistake. If they can weather this storm and move the ball swiftly through midfield, they’ll find space to exploit]

The ball zipped across the slick surface as AZ Alkmaar moved it around their backline, testing Liverpool’s defensive structure. Altidore positioned himself between Carragher and Agger, waiting for his moment to pounce.

On the touchline, Brendan Rodgers stood with arms folded, his eyes fixed on the movement of his players.

[AZ Alkmaar look calm in possession so far, but you can already see Liverpool’s pressing game at work. Henderson and Lucas are closing down spaces quickly, not allowing any easy passes into midfield. This is what makes them so difficult to play against]

[Exactly, John. And look at Luis Suárez already—he’s pressing the goalkeeper! That’s what you get from him, relentless energy. Esteban Alvarado has to be careful here]

Suárez darted toward Alvarado as the goalkeeper received a back pass.

The home fans held their breath as the Costa Rican quickly shifted the ball onto his left foot and sent it long. The crowd exhaled as the ball sailed over the halfway line.

[That was close! Suárez nearly caught him there. AZ Alkmaar can’t take too many risks at the back. Liverpool thrive on turnovers in dangerous areas]

The ball reached Henriksen, who controlled it neatly before playing it out wide to Benjamin Rijkaard.

The winger took one touch and lifted his head. Johnson had pushed up the field, leaving space behind. Benjamin didn’t hesitate—he drove forward.

[Benjamin Rijkaard on the move! He’s got space to run into!]

The crowd rose to their feet as Benjamin sprinted down the left, pushing the ball past Johnson.

Carragher came across to cover, his experienced eyes locked onto the young winger’s movements. Benjamin feinted left, then darted right. Carragher stuck out a leg and made contact, bringing him down.

Fweeee!

[And that’s a free kick! Good positive play from Benjamin Rijkaard, and AZ Alkmaar have an early chance to put a ball into the 18 yard box]

The home fans cheered as Henriksen stepped up to take it. Liverpool lined up defensively, with Reina barking orders.

The referee blew his whistle, and Henriksen curled the ball in—a teasing delivery toward the penalty spot.

[Dangerous ball in!]

Altidore rose, battling with Agger. The Danish defender just managed to get a flick on it, sending the ball skimming away toward the back post.

Berghuis reacted quickly, throwing himself at the gaping opportunity.