Fweeeee!~
The whistle blew, and Anfield erupted.
Liverpool, in their iconic red, took the first touch, immediately shifting the ball around with crisp passes. AZ Alkmaar, in their white and navy, held their shape, pressing just enough to prevent an easy buildup.
Rob Townsend: [And we are underway! Liverpool attacking from left to right in the first half. Jamie, what should we be looking out for in these opening minutes?]
Jamie Carter: [Intensity. Liverpool will want to set the tone early, get AZ Alkmaar on the back foot. We've seen them start fast in these types of games, especially here at Anfield. Look for Gerrard to dictate things from midfield]
The ball zipped across the grass as Liverpool probed. Henderson received it in midfield, turned, and immediately played it wide to Johnson, who surged forward.
Rob Townsend: [Glen Johnson bombing down the right already. He's got Sterling ahead of him—early signs of Liverpool's attacking intent]
