Liverpool pulled off a miraculous 1-0 victory over PSG in the Champions League last-16 first leg, but it was far from a straightforward night in Paris.
The Reds were under siege for large parts of the game, with PSG dominating possession and creating a barrage of chances. However, a combination of Alisson Becker’s heroics, resilient defending, and a moment of magic from substitute Harvey Elliott ensured that Liverpool left the Parc des Princes with a priceless win.
Here’s how each Liverpool player fared in a match that will be remembered for grit, determination, and a touch of late drama.
Alisson Becker – 10/10 (MAN OF THE MATCH)
An outstanding performance. Made a string of fine saves in the first half to keep Liverpool level, including a stunning stop to deny Kvaratskhelia’s free-kick and crucial interventions against Hakimi and Doue. The reason Liverpool left Paris with a clean sheet.
Trent Alexander-Arnold – 7/10
Made a crucial early intervention to deny Dembele but struggled at times against PSG’s wingers. Improved defensively as the game went on.
Ibrahima Konate – 7/10
Made an important block on Barcola but was fortunate not to be sent off for a push on the PSG forward. Recovered well and contributed to the clean sheet.
Virgil van Dijk – 7/10
A quieter night than usual, failing to make a tackle or compete in many aerial duels. His leadership and composure were still vital in organizing the defense.
Andy Robertson – 6/10
Struggled against the pace and trickery of Kvaratskhelia and Dembele. Worked hard but was often on the back foot.
Ryan Gravenberch – 6/10
Overrun in midfield and slow in closing down Kvaratskhelia for the disallowed goal. Struggled to influence the game before being subbed off.
Alexis Mac Allister – 6/10
Unable to impose himself in midfield as PSG dominated possession. Improved defensively in the second half but lacked his usual creativity.
Dominik Szoboszlai – 6.5/10
Made a brave block to deny Barcola and was one of the few midfielders willing to drive forward. Worked tirelessly but couldn’t create much.
Mohamed Salah – 4/10
A rare quiet game for the Egyptian. Kept in check by Nuno Mendes and failed to make an impact.
Diogo Jota – 5/10
Led a few counter-attacks with energy but was largely ineffective against Marquinhos. Subbed off in the second half.
Luis Diaz – 4/10
Sloppy in possession and offered little threat. Rightly substituted as Liverpool looked to change the game.
Substitutes:
Darwin Nunez (on 67′) – 7/10
Added energy and physicality upfront. Played a key role in the win with an unselfish assist for Elliott.
Curtis Jones (on 67′) – 6/10
Helped shore up the midfield and added defensive effort.
Wataru Endo (on 79′) – 7/10
Brought stability and made a few important blocks in his short time on the pitch.
Harvey Elliott (on 87′) – 8/10
The match-winner! Scored with his first touch just seconds after coming on. A moment of pure brilliance.
Manager:
Arne Slot – 7/10
Got his substitutions spot on, with Elliott and Nunez combining for the winner. Set up defensively to absorb pressure, but Liverpool was fortunate to come away with the win.
