Liverpool are through to the quarterfinals of the Europa league after a 1-1 draw at Old Trafford which enabled the Reds to beat their old foes 3-1 on aggregate. Anthony Martial opened the scored from the spot, and on the break of half-time Philippe Coutinho produced a magical moment and chipped David De Gea exquisitely to score an all-important away goal for Liverpool.
United were looking threatening in the first half but a Messi-like finish from Liverpool’s magician settled the tie. Jurgen Klopp said afterwards that He was proud of the players and stated that were Liverpool deserved to go to the next round.
Let’s take a look at the player ratings from the clash against Man United:
1. Simon Mignolet: 6.5
Made one good save of Lingard’s effort but other than that, a comfortable night for Liverpool’s no.1.
2. Nathaniel Clyne: 5.5
Had a torrid time in the first time caused by Anthony Martial. Gave away the penalty and also had a booking. A night to forget for the Englishman.
3. Dejan Lovren: 7
Looked solid and is regaining his form with each game passing by. His partnership with Sakho is looking confident and is certainly looking like a £20 million defender these days.
4. Mamadou Sakho: 7.5
The French international is looking like the real deal in recent months. Best defender on the pitch by a mile.
5. James Milner: 6.5
Had to play as a left back because of the injury to Alberto Moreno. Looked good going forward and was decent in defense too. All in all a decent game for him.
6. Emre Can: 7
Continued his rich vein of form. Kept the play ticking well and his runs forward were pretty important.
7. Jordan Henderson: 6.5
Passed the ball brilliantly. Had a glorious chance which could have proved costly if United had scored another goal.
8. Adam Lallana: 6.5
Looking a player with a purpose under Jurgen Klopp. Touches showed quality and the Englishman’s work rate was at display at Old Trafford.
9. Philippe Coutinho: 8
What a Player! Scored a perfect goal as described by Klopp. Flashes of brilliance throughout the game and was a constant threat to United.
10. Roberto Firmino: 6.5
Didn’t score a goal for a change this year but not one of his good display for the Reds. Sloppy at times and looked like he was short on match fitness.
11. Daniel Sturridge: 6.5
Hit the crossbar with a brilliant free kick. Otherwise an average performance from the frontman.
Subs :
Divock Origi: 6
Replaced Sturridge and played for half an hour and looked sharp. Showed his usual pace and needs more minutes under his belt.
Joe Allen: 6.5
The Welshman has a strong case for a new contract and must be causing headaches for Klopp in team selection.
Christian Benteke: N/A
Played for under 10 minutes. Did not do anything worth noticing.
Man of the Match: Philippe Coutinho.