Liverpool suffers a heavy defeat ahead of the 2026/27 season

Liverpool concluded their pre-season tour in the United States with an unbelievable 2-4 loss to Leeds United in Chicago, despite having led by two goals at halftime.

Manager Andoni Iraola's team started actively and completely controlled the match in the first 45 minutes. Luke Chambers opened the scoring, and then Florian Wirtz, returning to the lineup, doubled the lead with a beautiful attacking combination.

The situation leading to Wirtz's goal involved Trey Nyoni and Jeremie Frimpong. Nyoni continued to impress during the pre-season preparations, while Frimpong's speed helped Liverpool put constant pressure on the right flank. With a 2-0 lead and a dominant performance, Liverpool seemed to have the victory firmly in hand.

However, the situation changed completely after the break. Leeds strengthened their attack by bringing on Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Harry Wilson. These adjustments quickly paid off, allowing the white-shirted team to score three consecutive goals in just 13 minutes.

Brenden Aaronson reduced the deficit after capitalizing on a mistake by Milos Kerkez. Soon after, a powerful throw-in by Ethan Ampadu caused chaos in Liverpool's penalty area, allowing Calvert-Lewin to equalize at 2-2.

Liverpool had not yet stabilized their formation when they conceded another goal. Just two minutes later, Sean Longstaff took a shot that was not perfectly struck but still sufficient to complete Leeds' comeback.

Calvert-Lewin then scored his second goal in a nearly identical fashion to his first, sealing the 4-2 victory. Liverpool's defense once again proved helpless against Ampadu's dangerous throw-in.

The result in Chicago helped Leeds conclude a highly encouraging US tour. Meanwhile, Liverpool will need to quickly address their defensive issues before the new season begins in less than three weeks.