Liverpool continue their Europa League journey on Thursday when they square off with Ligue 1 side, Toulouse FC. We take a look at the current form of the French side and what challenge they will pose the Reds. Let’s get started.
They currently sit 10th in the Ligue 1 table – Les Violets have 11 points through nine matches. They have only managed to secure 2 victories thus far.
They have drawn 5 of their last 8 matches overall. So they do not come into the match with Liverpool in the finest form. They have a scored 11 while conceding 10 in the league so they are about as average as a side can get at this stage.
3-headed trio leading the way with 3 goals apiece – Thijs Dallinga, Frank Magri and Zakaria Aboukhlal all have 3 goals in all competitions to lead Toulouse.
Aboukhlal in particular provides a pacey and dangerous option on the wing and he could definitely pose some problems for the left side of Liverpool’s defense.
Dallinga is a good sized center-forward that brings a passion to the side that will have to be keyed on by the Reds defense. This will especially be the case on potential set pieces.
Toulouse sit second in Europa League group behind Liverpool – It’s going to be a top of the group clash between these two as Liverpool have the maximum 6 points while Toulouse have secured a solid 4 points.
They have only scored two goals in their two matches so the Liverpool defense could have a chance to continue their good trajectory.
Tolouse President Damien Comolli has a Liverpool connection – Comolli was the Director of Football at Liverpool between 2010-2012.
He held this position during FSG’s takeover of the club. He was responsible for bringing future Captain Jordan Henderson to Anfield.
His scouting system while at Toulouse has taken on a data driven view and dives deep into analytics, not unlike the one in place at Liverpool.
Toulouse is the 4th biggest city in France, and is a rugby town – Toulouse FC were relegated just 3 years ago following the pandemic shortened season in 2020. The football side has been fighting for relevance in a town that cherishes rugby.
Winning the Coupe de France last year was a major moment for the club in their resurgence back to the upper echelon’s of the game.
Liverpool will be the favorites as they welcome Toulouse to Anfield but the French outfit have shown they could provide a little sting if given the chance.