Liverpool Collapse From 2-0 Up as Leeds Win 4-2 in Chicago

CHICAGO — Liverpool suffered a dramatic second-half collapse as Leeds United came from two goals down to claim a stunning 4-2 victory in the final match of both clubs’ United States pre-season tour. Andoni Iraola’s side looked in complete control before halftime, but defensive mistakes and set-piece frailties allowed Leeds to turn the game around in spectacular fashion.

Liverpool made an impressive start and took the lead after just seven minutes. Dominik Szoboszlai’s corner was flicked on by Milos Kerkez, allowing Luke Chambers to fire home from close range. The Reds continued to dominate possession and created several dangerous openings, while goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili produced an excellent save to deny Lucas Nmecha. Their superiority was rewarded again before the break when Florian Wirtz marked his return with a superb goal, finishing off a flowing move involving Trey Nyoni and Jeremie Frimpong to give Liverpool a deserved 2-0 advantage.

Leeds emerged from halftime with renewed energy after introducing Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Harry Wilson, and the momentum quickly shifted. Calvert-Lewin immediately caused problems for the Liverpool defence, and in the 60th minute Brenden Aaronson capitalised on a costly mistake by Kerkez to pull one back. Just eleven minutes later, Ethan Ampadu launched a trademark long throw into the penalty area, Joe Rodon flicked it on, and Calvert-Lewin headed in the equaliser at the back post.

Liverpool had barely recovered when Leeds struck again. Sean Longstaff reacted quickest inside the box to score a scrappy but decisive goal in the 73rd minute, completing the comeback. The visitors continued to exploit Liverpool’s vulnerability from set pieces, and another Ampadu long throw produced a near-identical chance for Calvert-Lewin, who headed home his second goal of the afternoon in the 84th minute to seal a memorable 4-2 victory.

The result highlighted familiar concerns for Liverpool despite the match being part of their pre-season preparations. Two of Leeds’ goals came directly from long throws, echoing the defensive problems Liverpool experienced from set pieces last season. Speaking after the match, Szoboszlai admitted that the team must improve in that area before the new campaign begins. “We know we conceded two goals from set pieces, and we have to take care of them more,” he said. “Everyone has to do their job, and we have to react better.”

There were still positives for Iraola to take from the defeat. Wirtz looked sharp during his 45-minute appearance, while teenager Trey Nyoni once again impressed with his composure and creativity in midfield. However, once Wirtz and several senior players were substituted at halftime, Liverpool struggled to create chances and lost control of the match. Both teams will now return to England for the final phase of pre-season, with Liverpool set to face Monaco and Como at Anfield before their Premier League opener. Leeds, meanwhile, continue their preparations with fixtures against RB Leipzig and Manchester United, encouraged by a comeback that could provide valuable momentum ahead of the new season.