'I Did My Homework!': Szoboszlai Explains Clever Free-Kick That Sparked Liverpool’s Marseille Rout
Liverpool midfielder Dominik Szoboszlai has revealed that careful preparation and tactical awareness were key to his stunning free-kick during the Reds’ 3-0 Champions League victory over Marseille.
Dominik Szoboszlai explains the analysis and coaching that led to his under-the-wall free-kick as Liverpool defeated Marseille, with Arne Slot and Steven Gerrard reacting to the goal.
The breakthrough came deep into first-half stoppage time after VAR downgraded a potential penalty to a free-kick on the edge of the box. With the wall jumping and no defender positioned behind it, Szoboszlai calmly rolled the ball low into the corner to put Liverpool ahead.
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The Hungarian later admitted the moment was no accident. Liverpool had analysed Marseille’s defensive habits in advance, and Szoboszlai was ready to take advantage.
“I did my homework,” he told TNT Sports. “I was told that if nobody lay down, I might have a chance to go under the wall. Nobody was there, so I tried it, and it worked.”
Arne Slot confirmed that the routine had been designed by goalkeeping coach Xavi Valero, while also voicing his frustration at another controversial refereeing call. The Liverpool boss felt the original handball decision should have resulted in a penalty for Mohamed Salah.
“It shouldn’t have been Dom taking it,” Slot said. “It should have been Mo, because it should have been a penalty. But we can’t depend on decisions. We still have to perform, and tonight we did.”
Slot added that Liverpool have often suffered from unfavourable calls this season, but praised his side for continuing to deliver strong performances regardless.
Steven Gerrard was equally impressed, highlighting Szoboszlai’s maturity and steady improvement across the 2025-26 campaign. The former Liverpool captain stressed the importance of humility and continued development.
“There’s a world-class level there,” Gerrard said. “If he keeps working the right way and stays grounded, he can reach another level. This is the most consistent I’ve seen him.”
Gerrard also focused on the moment Szoboszlai took free-kick responsibility from Salah, noting how confidently he handled the situation. According to Gerrard, the midfielder ignored Salah’s request and trusted the plan devised in training.
“That free-kick was made days earlier on the training ground,” he explained. “Most players step aside for Salah, but I love the way Szoboszlai backed himself and executed it perfectly.”
The win in Marseille keeps Liverpool firmly on track for direct qualification to the Champions League last 16. With Slot’s side currently fourth in the Premier League and narrowly ahead of their rivals, attention now turns to their upcoming league visit to Bournemouth.
