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The European Champions have their title defence up and running again. Liverpool bounced back from their 2-0 defeat in Naples, with a 4-3 win over RB Salzburg at Anfield in what was a crazy game typified by an energetic Salzburg side who attacked with verve, and an uncharacteristically sloppy Liverpool side.

Goals from Sadio Mane, Andy Robertson and Mo Salah put the Reds in command in the first half, but in 22 minutes either side of half-time, Salzburg came storming back with goals from Hwang Hee-Chan, Takumi Minamino and Erling Braut Haaland. Salah eventually got Liverpool the winner, as the Reds breathed a huge huge sigh of relief at the full-time whistle.

Here’s how each player fared for the Reds

Adrian San Miguel – 6/10

He made one really good save in the first half, could do nothing with the three Salzburg goals, but nearly gifted them a goal with a moment of madness similar to the one at St. Mary’s. Lucky.

Trent Alexander-Arnold – 6/10

Got his now customary Anfield assist, when he set up Robertson for the Reds’ second goal. Was tested to the hilt defensively, and was one of the few who didn’t get bitten by the sloppiness bug.

Joe Gomez – 3/10

Wasn’t good at all. He looked rusty, and really felt the force of Hwang and the rest of the Salzburg attackers. Matip could not return soon enough for the Reds!

Virgil van Dijk – 4/10

It would not be an exaggeration to say that was one of his worst games in a red shirt. He committed himself too easily for Salzburg’s first goal, and was too casual in defending Minamino in the build-up to their third. He still won all his aerial duels, but he’ll be the first to admit that this is a game he needs to get out of his system.

Andrew Robertson – 7/10

The first half was outstanding from Robertson, with his typical energy down the left side causing Salzburg all kinds of problems. He even got himself only his second goal for Liverpool with a striker’s run. Was sloppy in the second half, though.

Fabinho – 6/10

Cleaned up brilliantly in midfield in the first half, and set the tone for Liverpool. Much quieter after the break, like a lot of the Liverpool players.

Gini Wijnaldum – 5/10

Should’ve scored to make it 4-1, when Mane laid it on a plate for him. Wasn’t spectacular otherwise either.

Jordan Henderson – 5/10

The skipper gave the ball away in the build-up to the first Salzburg goal, and was ragged throughout the time he was on the pitch. Did show some nice touches in linking up with the front three, but it wasn’t one of his best days.

Mo Salah – 8/10

Huge for him to get his two goals, both of which he took really well. Should’ve scored one even before he got his first. Should do a little bit better with his play in possession.

Roberto Firmino – 7/10

Three assists today, if you count the header which was saved for Salah to score off the rebound. A Happy Birthday, indeed, for Bobby.

Sadio Mané – 7/10

Took his goal beautifully, and troubled the Salzburg defence, but it just didn’t click enough for him in the final third.

SUBSTITUTES

James Milner – 6/10

Came in for Henderson and calmed things down on the ball.

Divock Origi – 6/10

Provided the Reds with a useful attacking outlet by winning a few headers, and being a willing runner on the left side.

Naby Keita – N/A

Came on late in second-half stoppage time for what felt like a few obligatory minutes against his former employers.

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