Here we have with us the Liverpool player ratings after their comfortable 2-0 victory against Arsenal in the EFL Cup semi-final. The first leg was a 0-0 draw at Anfield with Arsenal playing with 10-men. However, both teams had a second chance with the second leg and Liverpool took advantage of it. It was Thomas Partey who got a red card in the second leg.
Arsenal had a statement performance at Anfield when they shook Liverpool for a draw with 10-men. Therefore, many expected Arsenal to get a result in the second leg but that is a tough task for any club. Liverpool is indeed in flying form and were the favorites going into this fixture.
Arsenal had 2 shots on target whereas Liverpool had 3 shots on target. As a result, the match was not as entertaining as the usual Arsenal vs Liverpool matches are. Liverpool took the lead in the 19th minute when Jota scored a beautiful solo goal after beating a few defenders on the run.
Jota’s second goal was ruled offside in the 77th minute when Trent played a wonderful ball towards the Portuguese. However, the decision was overturned after a VAR check and the goal was given. Partey was booked for the second time in the 90th minute after a frustrating tackle which led to his red card.
Liverpool Player Ratings vs Arsenal
Caoimhin Kelleher – 7/10
Made a fine fingertip save to deny Lacazette’s effort that hit the post. Showed confidence throughout the game.
Trent Alexander-Arnold- 7/10
Took some to grow into the game and gain confidence. Later got two assists for himself like another usual day and did not make any mistakes in defense either.
Joel Matip – 6/10
Scored a goal which was immediately ruled offside by the linesman. However, he was solid throughout the game and held his position before being subbed off.
Virgil Van Dijk – 7/10
Another impressive performance from the Dutch international. He was very calm and collected at the back and helped Kelleher to avoid mistakes.
Andy Robertson – 6/10
He was cautious going forward but handled things pretty well for himself. Had a good chance to score a goal but failed to find the far corner of Arsenal’s goal.
Fabinho – 8/10
Another solid display from the Brazilian as he protected his backline on a few occasions. Great tackle on Martinelli to prevent the danger.
Jordan Henderson – 6/10
Henderson had a simple game as he did not make any mistakes and neither was he heavily involved in the goals. Came off in the later stages for James Milner.
Curtis Jones – 7/10
Showed his great dribbling skills and excellent footwork throughout the game. All he had to do is get into free areas so he can dribble and attack more.
Kaide Gordon – 6/10
Seemed a bit nervous but was good to watch in the game and should have scored early in the second half when Jota set him up.
Roberto Firmino – 7/10
Had a good presence in the attacking line and constantly troubled the Arsenal backline with his press and runs. Drew defenders away to make space for his teammates.
Diogo Jota – 9/10
Scored both the goals with great effort and no tap-ins or easy headers. Dribbled his way into the box before scoring the first goal and wrestled Ben White to chip it over Ramsdale for the second goal.
Substitutes
Ibrahima Konate – 7/10
Was denied his first goal for Liverpool as his effort hit the post.
Takumi Minamino – 6/10
Opponents keep a check on him now as he has turned into an attacking threat now.
James Milner – 6/10
Helped Liverpool keep the clean sheet and complete the game.
Neco Williams – 6/10
Was responsible for Partey’s first yellow card.
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