Liverpool’s relentless march in the Champions League continued with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Girona, underlining their dominance in the competition’s league phase. Arne Slot’s side have now notched six wins in as many games, sitting comfortably atop the standings while extending their remarkable run of over 500 minutes without conceding a goal.
Salah’s Penalty Proves Decisive
The game’s turning point arrived on the hour mark, as Mohamed Salah confidently converted from the spot, erasing memories of his miss against Real Madrid. Sent the wrong way, Girona’s Paulo Gazzaniga had no answer to Salah’s clinical finish, marking the Egyptian’s continued importance to Liverpool’s European campaign. His ability to deliver in crucial moments was once again on display, reinforcing why he remains one of the competition’s standout performers.
Girona Show Resilience Against the Odds
While the scoreline favoured Liverpool, Girona’s spirited display deserves recognition. Far from embracing an underdog mentality, the Spanish side challenged the Premier League leaders at every turn. Former Everton winger Arnaut Danjuma was a persistent threat, showcasing his pace and guile. Meanwhile, Miguel Gutierrez, Girona’s young left-back, turned in a performance that will have surely attracted attention from Europe’s elite clubs.
Photo: IMAGO
Girona’s adventurous approach and resolute defending kept the contest finely balanced, ensuring that Liverpool were tested until the final whistle.
Defensive Solidity Fuels Liverpool’s Run
Liverpool’s defensive resilience was once again pivotal. With Alisson Becker delivering a series of crucial saves, supported by commanding displays from Virgil van Dijk and Andy Robertson, the Reds maintained their impressive defensive record. Their ability to absorb pressure while dictating play has been a hallmark of their Champions League campaign, providing a foundation for their attacking stars to shine.
Arne Slot’s side now head into their final two league-phase fixtures against Lille and PSV Eindhoven with the luxury of knowing that their knockout-stage berth is virtually secured.
Player Ratings:
Liverpool
Alisson – 8.3: Key to Liverpool’s clean sheet, making several vital saves.
Trent Alexander-Arnold – 7.2: Composed in possession, solid defensively.
Joe Gomez – 7.5: Alert and dependable in the heart of defence.
Virgil van Dijk – 7.4: A calm and assured presence at the back.
Andy Robertson – 8.0: Tireless display, crucial in both defence and attack.
Curtis Jones – 7.3: Effective in breaking up Girona’s rhythm.
Ryan Gravenberch – 7.3: Controlled and dynamic in midfield.
Mohamed Salah – 8.1: Delivered the match-winning penalty with confidence.
Dominik Szoboszlai – 7.1: Quietly influential, linking midfield and attack.
Luis Diaz – 7.5: Energetic and consistently probing the Girona defence.
Darwin Nunez – 6.5: Worked hard but lacked a clinical edge.
Substitutes:
Cody Gakpo (71′ for Nunez) – 6.3: Limited impact in his cameo.
Harvey Elliott (76′ for Jones) – 6.4: Neat and tidy in possession.
Wataru Endo (89′ for Diaz) – N/A.
Subs not used: Caoimhin Kelleher, Vitezslav Jaros, James Norris, Jarell Quansah, James McConnell.