Alexis Mac Allister (8/10):
Relentless from start to finish. Worked hard defensively and kept pushing even when he was not getting the ball in advanced areas. Thought he had snatched a late winner only for VAR to rule it out, but showed huge character to respond and score the decisive goal anyway. Outstanding mentality.
Rio Ngumoha (8/10):
Came on for Gakpo and changed the game. Delivered a superb cross that led to Ekitike’s big chance and the disallowed goal, then produced a dazzling run in the build up to the winner. Made a serious case for more minutes.
Alisson Becker (8/10):
Made an important early stop from Hudson Odoi. Distribution was shaky at first but he settled down and did what was needed to secure the clean sheet.
Ibrahima Konate (7/10):
Liverpool’s most commanding defender on the night. Handled Forest’s early pressure well and stayed composed when the game became frantic.
Virgil van Dijk (7/10):
Took a painful blow to the back of the head from a long range strike but recovered quickly. Played a crucial role in the winner with his powerful header that sparked the rebound.
Milos Kerkez (6/10):
Defended solidly and kept his opponent under control for most of the match. Did not offer a huge threat going forward but delivered a steady performance before coming off late.
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Ryan Gravenberch (6/10):
Neat and composed in possession, though often forced deep by Forest’s pressure. Kept things ticking without dominating.
Federico Chiesa (6/10):
Introduced for Salah in a surprise change. Added fresh energy and movement in the closing stages.
Dominik Szoboszlai (6/10):
Worked tirelessly as always but struggled defensively against direct running. His energy was clear, though he found it tough to fully impose himself.
Hugo Ekitike (6/10):
Limited service throughout. Forced into feeding off scraps and missed a strong opportunity when his header was well saved.
Mohamed Salah (4/10):
Spent much of his time tracking back rather than threatening goal. Lacked sharpness and confidence, and his drought continues.
Cody Gakpo (4/10):
Barely involved and unable to create any danger. Struggled to influence the game and was rightly replaced.
Curtis Jones (3/10):
Drafted in after a late injury to Wirtz and thrown straight into action. Missed a big chance and was asked to fill multiple roles, which made it a challenging night.
Joe Gomez (N/A):
Late sub for Jones.
Andy Robertson (N/A):
On for Kerkez late.
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