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Introduction:

Liverpool came from behind to beat Fulham 2-1 in the first leg of their EFL Cup semi-final at Anfield on Wednesday night. The Reds showed character and quality to overcome a resilient Fulham side, who took the lead through Willian in the first half. Cody Gakpo and Curtis Jones scored the goals for Liverpool in the second half, giving them a narrow advantage ahead of the second leg. Let’s take a look at the player ratings and assess the performance of each squad member.

Goalkeeper – Alisson Becker (7/10)

Alisson had a decent game, making a couple of good saves and showing his composure on the ball. He could not do much to prevent Willian’s goal, which was a well-placed shot from close range. He earned a score of 7 out of 10.

Defensive Dynamics: 

Conor Bradley (9/10): 

Bradley was the star performer for Liverpool, showing his courage and skill on the right flank. He defended well against Willian and Robinson, making several tackles and interceptions. He also attacked with flair, creating chances and winning free-kicks. He was involved in both goals, delivering the corner for Gakpo’s header and playing the pass for Jones’ strike. He deserved a score of 9.

Virgil Van Dijk (6/10): 

The captain had a below-par game, making some uncharacteristic errors and looking sluggish. He was partly at fault for Fulham’s goal, failing to clear the ball and block the shot. He also lost some aerial duels and misplaced some passes. He got a score of 6.

Ibrahima Konate (8/10): 

Konate was the best defender for Liverpool, showing his strength and speed. He dealt with most threats effectively, making some crucial blocks and clearances. He also carried the ball forward with confidence, adding some dynamism to the backline. He earned a score of 8.

Joe Gomez (7/10): 

Gomez had a solid game, filling in at left-back for the injured Tsimikas. He defended well against De Cordova-Reid and Castagne, making some timely interventions. He also supported the attack, linking up with Diaz and Jones. He got a score of 7.

Midfield Maestros: 

Alex Mallister, Curtis Jones, and Harvey Elliott Alex Mallister (7/10): Mallister played the vital number six role, providing defensive cover and dictating the tempo. He was composed on the ball, distributing it well, and switching the play. He also pressed well, winning some tackles and fouls. He got a score of 7.

Curtis Jones (8/10): 

Jones was the best midfielder for Liverpool, showing his energy and creativity. He scored the winner with a deflected shot, but he also created some chances and had some shots on target. He also worked hard defensively, helping out Gomez and Konate. He deserved a score of 8.

Harvey Elliott (7/10): 

Elliott injected some spark and flair into the midfield, replacing the injured Gravenberch in the first half. He showed his vision and technique, playing some clever passes and taking some shots. He also hit the post with a curling effort, which could have been a goal. He earned a score of 7.

Diogo Jota (6/10): 

Jota led the line for Liverpool but had a frustrating game. He was often isolated and marked out by Fulham’s defenders, finding it hard to get involved. He had some chances but failed to convert them. He got a score of 6.

Darwin Nunez (7/10): 

Nunez had a mixed game, showing some promise but also some flaws. He was constantly caught off-side, which disrupted Liverpool’s flow. He also missed some chances, including a header that was ruled out for offside. However, he improved his game in the second half, showing more movement and involvement. He also provided two assists, setting up Gakpo and Jones with precise passes. He earned a score of 7.

Substitutes

Cody Gakpo (8/10): 

Gakpo was the game-changer for Liverpool, coming on in the second half and scoring the equalizer. He showed his aerial ability, heading into Bradley’s corner with power. He also showed his vision, playing the pass for Jones’ winner. He made a decisive impact, earning him a score of 8.

Ryan Gravenberch (6/10): 

Gravenberch came on for Mallister in the second half, adding some freshness and dynamism to the midfield. He did not do much wrong but also did not do much to stand out. He got a score of 6.

Jurgen Klopp’s Decisions (8/10) 

Klopp’s substitutions proved to be effective, as Gakpo and Nunez changed the course of the game. He also switched to a 4-2-3-1 formation, which helped to create more space and chances for the attackers. He also managed to rest some key players, such as Salah and Alexander-Arnold, ahead of the FA Cup clash against Arsenal. He deserved a score of 8.

In summary, Liverpool showed character and quality to beat Fulham in the first leg of the EFL Cup semi-final. The midfield displayed energy and commitment, while the attackers showed their determination and skill. Bradley and Gakpo were the standout performers, while Nunez and Jones also impressed. Klopp made some smart decisions, giving Liverpool a narrow advantage ahead of the second leg.

YNWA (You’ll Never Walk Alone)!
The Liverpool FC Times Team
LiverpoolFCTimes.com