Liverpool left it late again to kick off their Champions League campaign with three points on a night when the midfield impressed.
Liverpool 3-2 Atletico MadridGoals: Robertson 4, Salah 6?, Van Dijk 90+2 Llorente 45+3?, 81?Alisson 7. Rarely called into action. Unsighted by Griezmann for Atletico’s first and have wrong-footed for the second. Claimed Sorloth’s header right at the death.
Jeremie Frimpong – 8
After a frustrating start to his Liverpool career, Wednesday felt like the night Frimpong truly announced his arrival on Merseyside. The Dutchman was lively throughout, and even thought he had won his side a penalty. When referee Maurizio Mariani thought his cross had struck the hand of Lenglet.
Frimpong didn’t neglect his defensive duties, however, and was on hand to snuff out a couple of dangerous Atletico attacks. One of which included clattering into Gonzalez. Needless to say, Anfield enjoyed that one. Ibrahima Konate – 7. After a difficult start to the campaign, this Champions League tie was another step in the right direction for the Frenchman. His partnership with Van Dijk will be crucial if Liverpool are to make the final in Budapest in May.
Virgil van Dijk – 8
Not too much the Liverpool manager could have done differently. Negotiated a difficult Champions League tie well for the large parts. Though have be disappointed to see his side surrender a two-goal lead for the third time this season. His decision to withdraw Wirtz late on could have come under greater focus had Van Dijk scored the winner. Have be disappointed to see Liverpool throw a two-goal lead away for the third time this season. Especially after displaying such superiority for the first 60 minutes.
Struggled to find his feet as Liverpool started to surrender chances to Atletico shortly after his introduction. Probably should have done better in the build-up to the equaliser. Better from Mac Allister, though he still looks like he’s playing with heavy legs at times. Full of energy and gave Atletico something different to think about as Liverpool chased a winner.
