⚽️ Magnificent Chaos, Familiar Concerns #LFC 4-3 Villarreal: There are nights at Anfield when the Champions League seems determined to remind us that football remains gloriously resistant to reason. Liverpool’s chaotic 4-3 victory over Villarreal was one of them, exhilarating, infuriating and occasionally bordering on the absurd. Two goals down inside half an hour, Liverpool’s defensive fragility was painfully exposed. Virgil van Dijk endured a particularly troubling opening, and the ease with which Villarreal exploited space behind our defensive line should concern Andoni Iraola enormously. Yet the response revealed something increasingly encouraging about this Liverpool side. Once the tempo increased and the pressing became coordinated, Villarreal struggled to live with us. Alexis Mac Allister was magnificent. Two goals, five shots, four chances created and an authority in possession that continues to make his contractual situation increasingly pressing. Liverpool would now be foolish to allow uncertainty over his future to linger. And then there’s Rio Ngumoha. What a remarkable footballer we’re watching develop. Seven successful dribbles, two assists and the distinction of becoming Liverpool’s youngest Champions League assist provider. His growing intelligence on the right flank, particularly his willingness to attack defenders at pace, is transforming his game. The confidence is infectious. Trey Nyoni deserves enormous credit too, completing 82 of 87 passes, while Florian Wirtz brought intelligence, urgency and a deserved goal from the bench. Liverpool registered 22 shots and 2.37 xG, evidence of the attacking pressure that eventually overwhelmed Villarreal. Three Champions League matches, three victories. There is genuine excitement building around Iraola’s Liverpool, although conceding three at home should trouble everyone. Brighton arrive on Sunday with considerably less inclination to forgive such generosity. A thrilling victory, but Liverpool’s defending remains a serious concern.