Full Time: Maribor 0-7 Liverpool
Liverpool romped off to a sensational 7-0 victory against Maribor in the Champions League last night. The win will come as a massive boost for the club after being at the receiving end of heavy criticism following their goal-less draw against arch-rivals Manchester United in the Premier League.
The Reds broke their European record as they notched up an away win, thanks to early goals that put them in a dominant position from the first. The fans must be happy since this was a very strong display from the side. Liverpool have been known to be extremely wasteful of chances in recent weeks but they looked a lot more solid against Maribor.
Liverpool Player Ratings
Loris Karius – 7/10
The goalkeeper was deployed ahead of Simon Mignolet and, while he did make a few routine saves, he was not tested much by the Maribor attackers.
Trent Alexander-Arnold – 7/10
The youngster made a shaky start but he settled down quickly enough. As is his trademark style, the defender did not shy away from bursting through the right with his contributions to the attack. He also ended up scoring the final goal.
Joel Matip – 7.5/10
Although Matip was not tested much, he was crafty and strong whenever he was in possession. Maribor may not have posed a serious threat but Matip was there to restrict them everytime they looked the least bit dangerous.
Dejan Lovren – 6/10
Compared to recent weeks, Lovren was a lot better last night but he still has a long way to go. Having said that, he wasn’t really tested much last night.
Alberto Moreno – 7/10
Moreno is gradually improving for Liverpool. He charged forward all game but still kept shooting too often when a pass might have easily created a goal.
James Milner – 8.5/10
Milner assumed the role of the captain and led Liverpool with solid determination. His experience proved to be vital and he also created the second goal for Firmino. Maribor were truly unable to stop him.
Emre Can – 7/10
Can played in a deeper role than usual but that did refine his performance on the whole while going forward.
Georginio Wijnaldum – 7.5/10
Liverpool played a high-pressing game last night and Wijnaldum made some worthy contributions to the same. He could have easily scored a goal though but the midfielder missed out on the opportunity.
Philippe Coutinho – 8.5/10
Since Liverpool netted those early goals, Coutinho was a lot more relaxed. He was responsible for the second goal, and from then on, the Brazilian did his duty diligently.
Mohamed Salah – 9/10
Salah provided a fine assist for Firmino within the opening minutes, before the Egyptian notched up two goals for himself. Maribor simply had no answer to his pace and it was a good night for the forward.
Roberto Firmino – 9/10
Firmino has had a quiet spell so far but last night, he was on fire. He scored two goals and was also close to netting a hat-trick at one point.
Subs
Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain – 7
The Englishman has struggled since his big money move to Anfield, but not last night. He came on for Mohamed Salah in the 57th minute and got himself on the scoresheet. Much-needed confidence booster.
Daniel Sturridge – 7
Sturridge came on for Roberto Firmino in the 68th minute. Laid on the assist for Oxlade-Chamberlain
Dominic Solanke – N/A
Came on for Wijnaldum in the 76th minute.