Impeccable Milner, Solid Mane – The best and the worst-rated players as Liverpool endured 0-0 draw with Porto
A goalless draw at Anfield was enough to see Liverpool enter the quarterfinals as they cruised past FC Porto, having won the away fixture 0-5. The match lacked steam and wasn’t all too exhilarating for the fans. The five-goal cushion allowed Klopp to plot a changed XI, with the likes of Adam Lallana getting starts after two months.
Liverpool failed to register a single shot on target in the first-half but managed to soak in the pressure and keep out Porto. Sadio Mané’s shot deflected off the post after it was saved by the legendary Iker Casillas. Later, Firmino ran through on goal but was denied by a timely intervention from Felipe. Salah almost found the back of the net. Unfortunately, his goal scoring run finally came to an end. However, the Reds must be content with the fact that they managed a clean sheet and avoided any injuries.
Here are the Liverpool FC players’ ratings –
Loris Karius: 7.5/10
He is oozing with confidence at the moment. Grabbed a couple of high balls well and got down to deny Waris’ threat. Otherwise, a comfortable outing.
Joe Gomez: 7/10
Good and strong at the back. Gomez stood his ground and played a fine hand in a well-constructed back four. Going forward though, there is scope for improvement.
Joel Matip: 6.5/10
Not tested much but otherwise, misplaced a couple of passes. Along with that, he won aerial duels and used his physicality.
Dejan Lovren: 7.5/10
Much like his partner, he wasn’t called upon all too often. Lovren was rather solid and blocked a Torres shot in the dying stages of the game.
Alberto Moreno: 7/10
Moreno was good at the back with his tackling and array of interceptions. He provided firepower going forward too.
Jordan Henderson: 7/10
Yet another player with a sturdy defensive display but lacking composure going forward. He completed five clean tackles but on the other side, his passing was indecisive and often too heavy.
Emre Can: 7.5/10
Played in fits and starts, ran forward, possessed fine movement and was strong throughout.
James Milner: 9/10
Sprayed passes all around the pitch, took his set pieces well and created three clear cut chances. Unlucky to have not added to his assist tally for the competition. He should have scored when Lallana crossed it accurately to his path.
Sadio Mané: 8.5/10
The only one who looked like a major goal-scoring threat. Mane threatened from the wings, was pacy and used his feet to good effect.
Adam Lallana: 8/10
Excellent touch and was crafty in the way he went about his business. Lallana provided energy and whipped in the crosses well.
Roberto Firmino: 6/10
Didn’t quite receive the best service but floundered a chance given by Henderson. Was taken off in the hour mark.
Substitutes –
Danny Ings: 7.5/10
Ings’ touch, movement and hold-up play was superb. He tested Casillas twice and moreover, looked sharp. Great to see him back.
Mohamed Salah: 7/10
Salah’s first touch clearly highlighted his confidence levels. He looked lively and was fantastic on the ball.
Ragnar Klavan: NA
Came on when Klopp shifted to a lack three. Didn’t play enough.