Salah’s Brilliance Seals Liverpool’s 2-1 Victory Over Lille | OneFootball

Liverpool 2 – 1 Lille – Champions League Man of the Match

Mohamed Salah

After a good result in overcoming a stubborn Brentford team 0-2 at the weekend, this less pressurized encounter allowed Arne Slot to make certain changes to his starting eleven which enabled the rest some assets, as well as much-needed minutes for those often sat on the fringes of the first team elite. The perfect six-game European winning run before this game meant that a win would enable progression into the next phase of this illustrious competition, as well as give the chance for backup players to stake a claim before the weekend visit of Ipswich Town.

Ultimately, this emphatic club side has been largely fortunate of late concerning injuries to the group. With training periodization being undertaken since the appointment of the former Feyenoord manager, Slot, the ability to increase playing loads without incurring a raft of muscular injuries has been beyond impressive.

Despite this vital initiative, the need to offer rest periods for certain individuals remains, therefore, this game was always likely to offer up a chance to shine for one or two players on this Tuesday night under the Anfield lights.

Despite a cage and cumbersome start, the defensive resilience of Lille was combated midway through the first half by a more direct and aggressive approach. With Arne Slot watching intently, he pushed for his men to bypass the congested midfield with long-range accuracy. The Egyptian King, Mohamed Salah, was nearly able to open the scoring after his Columbian teammate, Luis Díaz, was able to drive a mid-level cross into the penalty area, one which marginally evaded the on-rushing Salah.

Moments later the historical number eleven was able to lead a swift attack, as Curtis Jones once again sent a scintillating long pass beyond the defensive line which aligned perfectly with the run of his fleet-footed attacker, Salah. As the opposition keeper rushed to meet the counterattack, Mo was able to open his body and send his strike into the corner from the edge of the box. The goal was fantastic and it was vital in breaking the deadlock.

Just before halftime time, an extraordinary run and touch by the 32-year-old man of the match was undertaken, all whilst using his strength to hold off his marker. Unfortunately for a shocked and expectant fanbase in attendance, the low curling shot edged past the post, however, the moment was simply brilliant to view.

Ultimately, a difficult team that has been on a long streak without a loss, was opened up by the brilliance of Mohamed Salah and his relentless desire to add goal contributions at critical moments.

Steven Smith’s Pre-match Prediction;

Liverpool 3 – 1 Lille