Liverpool star boasted incredible 100% pass rate against Marseille | OneFootball

Liverpool cruise in Marseille as Joe Gomez steps up

Liverpool delivered one of their most convincing European performances of the season with a composed 3-0 win over Marseille at the Stade Velodrome, and while the headlines went to the goals, much of the real work was done quietly at the back. Joe Gomez, drafted in for Ibrahima Konate, produced a display that underlined why Arne Slot continues to trust him when the stakes are high.

For a player making only his fifth start of the campaign outside domestic cup competitions, Gomez looked anything but rusty. The 28-year-old slotted in seamlessly alongside Virgil van Dijk and offered exactly what Liverpool needed, calm distribution, intelligent positioning and defensive discipline.

Marseille performance backed up by the numbers

The data supported the eye test. According to Sofascore, Gomez completed all 39 of his attempted passes, giving him a perfect 100 percent success rate. In addition, he registered seven clearances, two interceptions and won three duels.

Those numbers highlight his importance in helping Liverpool manage the game, particularly during Marseille’s brief spells of pressure. His passing was not just safe, it was purposeful, helping the Reds maintain tempo and control.

One moment stood out in stoppage time. Gomez played a crisp pass into Dominik Szoboszlai, which sparked the move that ended with Cody Gakpo sealing the win. It was a small contribution in isolation, but a telling one in context.

Photo: IMAGO

Gomez underlines value to Liverpool squad

Van Dijk also singled out his defensive partner for praise after full-time, speaking to TNT Sports and acknowledging the reliability Gomez brings when called upon. That endorsement carries weight, especially given Liverpool’s defensive issues earlier in the season.

With Gomez recently returning from a hamstring injury, and long-term absences affecting squad depth, his versatility has become increasingly valuable. He can operate across the back line, which gives Slot options without sacrificing stability.

There had been speculation that AC Milan were exploring a potential January loan move, but performances like this make that scenario look increasingly unlikely. Gomez showed in Marseille that he remains a dependable option at a club competing on multiple fronts.

He may still be waiting for his first Liverpool goal, but nights like this confirm his broader contribution. Not spectacular, not flashy, just quietly effective. For a manager building consistency into his title-winning squad, that might be exactly what he needs.