# Liverpool vs Sunderland: Andoni Iraola Era Begins with Experimental XI in Nashville
NASHVILLE — Andoni Iraola named his first Liverpool starting XI for the pre-season friendly against Sunderland at GEODIS Park. The lineup is a blend of youth and experience.
Joe Gomez captains the side. The back four includes Mamardashvili in goal, with Gomez, Jones, Elliott, and Tsimikas. Frimpong, McConnell, and Morrison form the midfield. Ngumoha, N’Diaye, and Wright lead the attack.
The match kicks off at 7:30 PM CT (local time). For viewers in the UK, that’s 1:30 AM BST on July 26. US fans can watch on ESPN+ or via club official channels. A free trial is available through select streaming services. International viewers may need a VPN to bypass geo-restrictions.
Confirmed Liverpool Line-up vs Sunderland in Nashville
| Position | Starting XI | Substitutes |
|---|---|---|
| Goalkeeper | Mamardashvili | Woodman, Davies |
| Defenders | Gomez (c), Jones, Tsimikas | Kerkez, Chambers, Ramsay, Scanlon |
| Midfielders | Elliott, Frimpong, McConnell, Morrison | Szoboszlai, Nyoni, Abe |
| Forwards | Ngumoha, N’Diaye, Wright | Chiesa, Koumas, Sonni-Lambie, Ndukwe |
Gomez’s captaincy signals defensive leadership. Elliott and McConnell provide creativity in midfield. Wright, N’Diaye, and Ngumoha bring pace and directness.
Iraola’s tactics remain a mystery. Sunderland will test Liverpool’s new shape. The Black Cats have rotated heavily in pre-season. Historical meetings show Liverpool dominant, but warm-up friendlies carry less weight.
Post-match analysis will focus on Iraola’s immediate reactions. Performance highlights include defensive organization and attacking transitions. Areas for improvement likely involve pressing cohesion.
Second-half changes are expected. Szoboszlai and Chiesa could feature as impact subs. The bench depth suggests Iraola plans to rotate fully.
Sunderland’s approach will be pragmatic. They aim to frustrate Liverpool’s build-up. Expect a physical contest in the Nashville heat.
💡 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Q: What was the confirmed Liverpool starting XI against Sunderland in Nashville?
- A: Goalkeeper: Mamardashvili. Defenders: Gomez (c), Jones, Tsimikas. Midfielders: Elliott, Frimpong, McConnell, Morrison. Forwards: Ngumoha, N’Diaye, Wright.
- Q: When and where is the Liverpool vs Sunderland pre-season friendly taking place?
- A: The match is at GEODIS Park in Nashville, kicking off at 7:30 PM CT (1:30 AM BST on July 26).
- Q: How can fans watch Liverpool vs Sunderland from the US or UK?
- A: US fans can watch on ESPN+ or via club official channels. UK viewers may need a VPN to bypass geo-restrictions; a free trial is available through select streaming services.
Extended Reading
Liverpool FC confirmed the lineup via their official website. SI.com provided viewing details for US and UK audiences. CNET outlined free streaming options and VPN guides for international access.
All Red Full and Video members can watch the full match replay. Live coverage continues on club channels. Subscription required for exclusive content.