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RB Leipzig 0-1 Liverpool – UEFA Champions League Player Ratings

The Champions League came tearing back with a Wednesday night encounter at the Red Bull Arena. The hosts had yet to achieve a single European point before this game, whereas the visitors were on maximum points after two games.

The line up and subsequent ratings are listed below.

Caoimhin Kelleher – 8.0

From the outset, the highly skilled backup keeper was alert and pulled off some vital stops in a rather busy first half.

After the intermission, the 25-year-old was outstanding when called upon and is showing why he is the world’s best reserve stopper. Superb.

Trent Alexander Arnold – 7.0

The England superstar was a little too relaxed in possession at the start, however, he soon grew into the game and increased his concentration to match the output of his vibrant adversary.

Following the half time break, the vice-captain was more mature and measured on and off the ball, as he continues to show a newfound confidence in his defensive work.

Subbed – 75 mins

Kostas Tsimikas – 7.0

The Greek international was the provider of the first goal (in essence), as he floated a perfect cross towards the back post. Defensively, the backup left back was reliable against a team designed to score goals.

In the second half of this game, the popular fullback was reliable and resolute in his work throughout.

Subbed – 75 mins

Ibrahima Konaté – 8.0

The France international defender was bullish and determined against his old club, as the first half was all about stamping his physicality onto the contest.

After the half time team talk, the former RB Leipzig man mountain was immovable and shut down the very real threat presented to him, time and time again.

Virgil van Dijk – 8.0

The captain and leader of this team was effortlessly sublime in the first half, as varying threats came his way before being quickly dismissed.

After the break, the former Southampton skipper was key in organising his team and made sure any leaks were plugged immediately. World class.

Photo: IMAGO

Ryan Gravenberch – 7.0

The Duch midfielder was quick with his interceptions and positionally correct through a trying first half.

As the encounter resumed, the 6ft 3inch midfielder was superb in preventing a dangerous cross into the box and carried out his work with distinction.

Dominik Szoboszlai – 7.0

The Hungarian skipper was largely anonymous on the ball through a tricky opening 45 minutes, as his off-ball work shone brighter.

After the halftime team talk, the dynamo in midfield was again workmanlike and gave the opposing team no time to settle. Important.

Alexis Mac Allister – 7.0

The Argentina World Cup winner came back into the side with a remit to control tempo and on ball patterns of play. The former Brighton man achieved this with style against a very organised opposition.

In the second period, the versatile midfielder was reliable and steadfast in his work, with a requirement to keep a worthy opponent at bay.

Cody Gakpo – 8.0

The Dutch flyer was very lively and looked to attack his fullback at every opportunity. His penetration was in part the reason for the only goal in the first half, as he continues to impress. As the game resumed, the wide man was guilty of missing a very good opportunity, as his point-blank shot was saved by the keeper’s legs. A solid and forever reliable outlet.

⭐ Darwin Núñez – 8.0 (Man of the Match)

The Uruguayan raging bull was the scorer and terrorizing engine in the attack, through an impressive and energy filled opening period.

After the half time break the former Benfica man was almost the provider of a second goal, as his endeavour led to a near unmissable chance for Cody Gakpo, which was well saved. His work rate and powerful running was a delight to see and he offers so much to his teammates in sheer graft. Quality.

Subbed – 75 mins

Photo: IMAGO

Mohamed Salah – 7.0

The Egyptian King was again a goal contributor, as his headed effort was thundered into the net by his Uruguayan teammate.

After the break, the former Chelsea man was lively until he departed the field, begrudgingly.

Subbed – 63 mins

Substitutions:

Luis Díaz – 6.0 (on 63)

Came on to add something different.

Curtis Jones – 6.0 (on 75)

Came on to help retain the ball.

Joe Gomez – 7.0 (on 75)

Came on to add defensive power.

Andy Robertson – 6.0 (on 75)

Came on to add experience.

Photo: IMAGO

The Manager:

Arne Slot – 8.0

The Dutch manager was keen to get a very strong starting eleven onto the pitch, with a desire to maintain his 100% recorded in the 2024/25 Champions League.

All the substitutions were measured to suit the game state and allowed rest periods before the weekend trip to Arsenal.

Great ongoing performances.

Steven Smith’s Pre-match Prediction:

RB Leipzig 2 – 2 Liverpool

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