Liverpool managed to survive an unexpected scare and claim their very first Champions League points of the year with a nail-biting 4-3 victory against Red Bull Salzburg in an epic encounter that took place at Anfield. Liverpool obtained a comfortable lead early on in the game after a marvellous exchange between Roberto Firmino, and Sadio Mane produced a goal before Andy Robertson transforming the cross from Trent Alexander-Arnold into a second goal before Mohamed Salah made it a 3-0 lead from close range. However, the powerful striking ability from Hwang Hee-Chan managed to get Salzburg back into the match, and the visitors were able to level the scoreboard only 15 minutes into the second half, leaving Liverpool shell-shocked. Thankfully, the hosts managed to retake the lead during the 68th minute after talisman Mohamed Salah netter his second goal of the match to eventually secure 3 points for the Reds.

Positives & Negatives

The Reds can be forgiven for being a little nervous before kickoff took place. However, the attacking force of Liverpool witnessed them taking an incredible 3-0 lead. Even though there was nearly a massive slip-up during the second half of the game, The Reds managed to display major character to retake the edge which allowed them to take 3 points in the Champions League. Liverpool didn’t have Joel Matip on their side due to injury which meant that Joe Gomez had to replace him for this match at centre-back. Liverpool completely fell apart once the second half got underway and were almost brutally punished for their mistakes as Salzburg nearly took a point home. On any other evening, this match could have ended in a very different way when the final whistle went off.

Notable Players

Jurgen Klopp – Nobody anticipated that The Reds would throw away a comfortable 3-0 lead. However, when the unthinking occurred on the pitch, Klopp quickly reacted with the introductions of Divock Origi and James Milner. Their mixture of energy and experience allowed Liverpool to regain the lead in the match when things almost turned into a disaster.

Goalkeeper Adrian – He was given no chance against a powerful Hee-Chan strike and will be very thankful that a tame clearance didn’t allow for another goal to be scored. Even though three goals were conceded, it’s primarily due to his centre-backs that didn’t perform as they should have.

Trent Alexander Arnold – Provided another energetic performance during the match but unfortunately left Joe Gomez exposed at times which allowed the visitors more space when they attacked. Thankfully, provided a low cross that helped Liverpool score once again with Robertson on the receiving end of that cross.

Virgil Van Dijk – This will undoubtedly be the weakest performance from the player this season as he was turned upside down by Hee-Chan who managed to unleash an incredible strike against Adrian who was utterly helpless. After he went an entire season without being beaten when it comes to the dribble, it’s going to be a very long time before that retakes place, especially at Anfield.