A match that should have been a formality proved to be just that, as Liverpool drew 0-0 at Anfield against FC Porto to progress to the quarter finals of the Champions League for the first time since the 2008/09 season.
The Reds were clearly prioritising their match-up against Manchester United on Saturday and because of the result in Portugal, were completely justified in taking this home leg in such a nonchalant manner.
It was a straightforward win for the Reds. Here are our player ratings from a comfortable night at Anfield.
Loris Karius – 6.5
Many of Porto’s chances came from chipped through-balls over the top, and the German goalkeeper needed to be on his toes to claim them. Distribution was quick and accurate, for the most part.
Joe Gomez – 7
One of the brightest spots in the Liverpool team, Gomez was a constant outlet on the right flank, constantly overlapping and whipping in dangerous crosses.
Joël Matip – 6
Did not have much to do against Porto, as much of Aboubakar’s movement was concentrated to the flanks. Untroubled when called upon.
Dejan Lovren – 7
Nearly scored in the first half from a set piece, but put his header just too high over the bar. Made a vital, goal-saving block in the 84th minute to keep the score even.
Alberto Moreno – 6
Offered a fair amount going forward, but constantly needed Emre Çan to help out when Porto broke forward. Had a penalty shout turned down late in the first half.
James Milner – 7.5
James Milner continued his renaissance in centre midfield with another fierce display. Equally likely to put in a crunching tackle as he is to play a precise through-ball, the Englishman’s contributions in this Champions League campaign have been vital.
Jordan Henderson – 6.5
The Liverpool captain’s distribution was a definite highlight of the evening, playing several beautiful diagonals throughout the match. Booked for a late challenge on Corona early in the second half.
Emre Çan – 7
A comfortable display from the German midfielder, who never seemed to shift out of first gear (a common theme this evening). He and Milner constantly interchanged, which led to some strange positioning at times. Tidied up effectively when play broke down. Withdrawn for Ragnar Klavan in the 80th minute.
Adam Lallana – 3
This was not a match to expect fireworks from either side, but Lallana showed that he is well and truly past it as a winger. His performance bordered on laughable at times as the former Southampton captain Cruyff-turned himself into trouble at every opportunity. Lallana should only be used in the centre of the park from here on out.
Sadio Mané – 6.5
Mané was one of Liverpool’s most threatening players in a lethargic first half, showing as much when he struck the post in the 31st minute. Disappeared in the second half, as it became clear that the Reds’ focus was on their match at Old Trafford on Saturday. Withdrawn for Mohamed Salah in the 74th minute.
Roberto Firmino – 5.5
Had a shot on goal blocked by Felipe, but overall did not contribute much during the hour he was on the pitch before being withdrawn for Danny Ings.
Substitutes
Danny Ings (61′) – 6: Did a decent job leading the line and managed to get his head on the end of a few crosses. Denied a winning goal in the 88th minute by a wonderful save by Iker Casillas.
Mohamed Salah (74′) – 6: Immediately injected a sense of urgency upon his introduction and stretched Porto’s backline with his runs across goal.
Ragnar Klavan (80′) – 5: His introduction led to a change in shape for the Reds, from a 4-3-3 to a 3-at-the-back formation.
