The Reds recovered from an early setback at the Gtech Community Stadium, showing greater attacking purpose after Brentford were reduced to 10 men late in the first half. Victor Muñoz equalised after the hour mark before Isak completed the comeback to give Liverpool three valuable points.
Brentford strike first before red-card drama
Liverpool started with attacking intent, but both sides struggled to create a clear breakthrough during the opening exchanges. Dominik Szoboszlai was forced off with an injury in the first half, adding to Liverpool’s concerns.
Brentford eventually took the lead in the 44th minute when Keane Lewis-Potter headed home from a cross by Igor Thiago.
However, the hosts’ advantage was undermined in first-half stoppage time. Yehor Yarmoliuk was sent off for violent conduct following a VAR review after an incident involving Liverpool defender Jérémy Jacquet.
The dismissal gave Liverpool a numerical advantage for the entire second half and changed the balance of the contest.
Muñoz restores parity for Liverpool
Liverpool increased the pressure after the restart, forcing Brentford goalkeeper Caoimhín Kelleher into action as the visitors searched for an equaliser.
Their persistence paid off after the hour mark. Florian Wirtz produced an incisive pass to release Victor Muñoz, who advanced towards goal before driving a low finish into the net to make it 1-1.
The equaliser lifted Liverpool and intensified their pursuit of a winner. Bradley Barcola remained a threat in attack, although the winger missed opportunities to put his side ahead.
Isak completes the comeback
Liverpool took the lead in the 70th minute through Isak. Alexis Mac Allister delivered the ball into the penalty area, Barcola headed it back into the striker’s path, and Isak finished from close range to make it 2-1.
The goal completed Liverpool’s turnaround and rewarded their increased pressure against a Brentford side struggling with the numerical disadvantage.
Liverpool threatened to extend their lead, with Barcola striking the crossbar, but the visitors could not add a third goal.
Brentford’s afternoon deteriorated further in stoppage time when Vitaly Janelt received a second yellow card, leaving the home side with nine players.
What the result means
The victory gave Liverpool a timely response after their 3-0 defeat to Manchester City the previous weekend. It also ended Brentford’s unbeaten start to the league campaign.
Wirtz played a key role in the comeback with his creative passing, while Muñoz and Isak delivered the goals that secured the win. Liverpool will nevertheless be concerned about the injuries to Szoboszlai and Jeremie Frimpong, who also had to leave the match after coming on at half-time.
Liverpool’s performance was not without its difficulties, but their ability to capitalise on the extra man and secure the points was the decisive factor.
Match details
• Premier League: Brentford 1-2 Liverpool
• Brentford: Keane Lewis-Potter 44'
• Liverpool: Victor Muñoz 62', Alexander Isak 70'
• Red cards: Yehor Yarmoliuk (Brentford), first-half stoppage time; Vitaly Janelt (Brentford), stoppage time
• Venue: Gtech Community Stadium, Brentford
• Date: Saturday, 17 October 2026