Liverpool registered their first win in Europa in this season at Kazan arena to grab the 2nd spot in Group B with 6 points. Became the first British team to beat Kazan in their own backyard. Jurgen Klopp’s unbeaten tally of 6 games looks to be in for more extension. Liverpool dominated the game with more than 67% possession, some individual sparks flew, but the Scouser lads need to improve finishing. Liverpool rode to victory by virtue of a 52nd minute Jordon Ibe goal. Result? Klopp shouting ‘’Ibyyyyyyyyy,’’ affectionately at the end whistle. Is Liverpool of 2013/14 back?
Player Ratings:
Mignolet 6:
The Belgian had almost nothing to do in the match. 0 saves he had to make. Distribution has some room for improvement, though. Mignolet could have borrowed a book and read under the bars, so impenetrative was Kazan’s attack.
Clyne 7:
After back to back starts, he should have struggled physically, but he put on another fine display. He is a strong lad defensively, contributing to the attack as well. The overlapping fullback made a lightning speed forward burst of a run, that showed how much talent the RB possesses. Bellerin your competition is coming. What an engine!
Lovren 6:
Strong performance as covering centre-half. Didn’t have much to do but one of his best performances for Liverpool. Made some good interceptions; was good on the ball. Showed endeavour for ball recovery. Got booked.
Sakho 7:
Didn’t have much to do, but made some good interceptions. Gave away ball 2 times in the first half, but every tackle was on the spot. Made good blocks, showed leadership. His stats:
88/96 passes completed, 5 clearances,100% (3/3) headers won.
Moreno 7:
Another good performance, side netted once after a burst of the run. Need to improve his crossing, defensively was dependable. Got more forward as left back under Klopp than as the wingback under Rodgers. Confidence is brimming.
Can 6:
Strong figure at the middle, really turning it on under Klopp. Didn’t pay heed to defensive duties, though. Had a clash with two Kazan players, one was on the ground, one was on the sidelines -.Beastly. His scuffed shot made Klopp laugh.
Allen 7:
Joe Allen was really good. Klopp gives him constant hugs. Must have transmitted some of Klopp’s football genius. Was industrious. Made one good run. Lacked effectiveness and final product.
Milner 6:
Needs rest, his effort and dedication not in question, but final touch and finishing was poor. Should have scored. Underperformed. Was better on the left clearly.
Ibe 8:
Scored the match-winning goal, looked confident playing in his natural position. Great display of pace, vision and skill. Great run, great first touch, second touch and finishing.
His stats:
89% pass accuracy, 11 take-ons, 8 crosses, 4 shots, 1 goal. Big talent.
If you are Ibe’s family and watched Klopp’s sincere hug to Ibe, you surely would have thought Klopp’s gonna try to adopt him.
Firmino 7:
Was class, showed what he is capable of. A scintillating display of skills, classy, creative. Ibe scored from Firmino’s great pass. His shooting and finishing need to be improved. Technically immense dictates the pitch effortlessly.
Benteke 6:
Not set the ground on fire, but good hold up play and good linking up with other forwards. Helped defensively too.
SUBS:
Lallana: 6
Lucas:6.5
Skrtel:6