By: Dan Clubbe
Real Madrid 1-0 Liverpool – What Could Have Been
The Reds bowed out of the Champions League with somewhat of a whimper in the end as the experience and quality of Real Madrid proved too much for Jurgen Klopp’s side.
There were chances for the visitors but nothing clear cut and it was Alisson who was the busier of the two goalkeepers – producing some frankly ridiculous saves.
Liverpool’s second-half never truly kicked into gear and a Karim Benzema goal ended all hopes of the unthinkable comeback after all the damage had been done at Anfield.
Here’s how I rated those involved:
Alisson Becker 8 (MOTM) – Two astonishing saves to keep the Reds in the tie. Nothing to be done about the goal.
Trent Alexander-Arnold 6 – Poor corners rather summed up his night. Kept busy by the lightning-fast and trickery Vinicius Jr, who he actually battled well with and came out on top of his fair share. One brilliant goal-saving tackle.
Ibrahima Konate 6 – Solid from the giant Frenchman who provided a no-nonsense approach to his defending.
Andy Robertson 6 – Offered his never say die running down the left all night but the service just wasn’t on point.
Virgil van Dijk 6 – Didn’t cover himself in glory for the goal but overall it was a relatively defensively sound display from the Dutchman against a Real Madrid side oozing quality.
See how Chris rated the Reds during The LFC Fan Interactive Show
James Milner 6 – Added to the starting lineup for his experience, endeavour and steel in a midfield pivot. Unable to have the impact Klopp would’ve dreamt of.
Fabinho 6 – Overran in the first half time and time again. Helped the Reds dominate possession in a midfield two in the second half but was unable to offer enough going forwards in a creative sense.
Diogo Jota 5 – Not at it since returning from injury. An exercise of time and minutes between now and the end of the season.
Cody Gakpo 7 – Another step in the right direction for a player still learning his trade at Liverpool. Predominantly played as a number 10, showing more versatility that will be welcome in Klopp’s squad.
Darwin Nunez 6 – Quiet game for the Uruguayan until he tested Courtois with a goalbound curling effort. Replaced before the hour mark, much to the surprise of everyone given his threat.
Mohamed Salah 6 – A night of what might’ve been for the Egyptian King that rather summed up Liverpool’s efforts. Did get some joy out of Nacho but ultimately couldn’t get the final pass or shot right.
Subs:
Harvey Elliott 6 – Not without endeavour but much like Liverpool as a collective he’s struggling to make anything click. Had a half chance to shoot or even win a penalty but passed up both options.
Roberto Firmino 6 – Tried to provide the much-needed spark but the game was already heading in one direction.
Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain 6 – A rare outing for the seemingly outgoing midfielder, one delightful touch but little tangible impact.
Fabio Carvalho/Kostas Tsimikas – NA
Conclusion:
Not the heavy metal approach we had hoped for as Klopp’s side appeared to get caught in two minds as to whether actually throw the kitchen sink at qualification.
Ended with a whimper despite creating half-chances throughout.
Now to get back with Europe’s elite next season…
