On a European night at Anfield, Liverpool did exactly what they needed to do, scoring early and holding Napoli off for a 1-0 victory to advance to the knockout stages of the Champions League.
The Reds made their first round passage far harder than needed, losing every away match in the competition. However, their home form has been imperious. On Merseyside, in front of friendly supporters, this club is a different proposition. They posses the kind of belief that should see them make another deep run in the tournament.
Despite the tension, Liverpool should have won this running away. The scoreline flattered Napoli. Had the Reds finished even half the array of chances they created, Napoli would have flown home knowing without reservation that they had been decidedly beaten. Instead Liverpool left things interesting until the very end.
The match was far more open than might have been expected and Napoli created a couple of early chances that ensured Liverpool locked in and played with a purpose that has been more consistent since the last international break. There would be no denying this side from advancing.
Of course it was Mo Salah that finished off an attacking move with a glorious tight-angle finish that left Kalidou Koulibaly and David Ospina for dead. He nearly opened the scoring in the first ten minutes were it not for a heavy touch.
Here are four findings from the match…
