Ibrahima Konate and Virgil van Dijk were imperious for Liverpool in their dogged 1-0 win at Sunderland, proving to be influential figures at both ends of the pitch.
The Reds battled to a precious three points on Wednesday evening, ending the Black Cats’ unbeaten home record in the Premier League this season.
Here we compare our player ratings with those of the Liverpool Echo, GOAL and the TIA readers.
Konate (8.53) has had a tough season, both on and off the pitch, but he was outstanding against Sunderland, earning the highest rating.
The Frenchman was immaculate up against the physical Brian Brobbey, with GOAL’s Tom Maston picking out a “superb block in the first half” as a key moment.
Ian Doyle of the Echo described it as a “fine defensive display” by Konate, as he showed his character so soon after the sad passing of his father.
SUNDERLAND, ENGLAND - Wednesday, February 11, 2026: Liverpool's Ibrahima Konaté is challenged by Sunderland's Brian Brobbey (L) during the FA Premier League match between Sunderland AFC and Liverpool FC at the Stadium of Light. (Photo by David Rawcliffe/Propaganda)
Van Dijk (7.75) scored the only goal of the game and wasn’t far behind his centre-back partner in the defensive stakes.
Writing for This Is Anfield, Danny Gallagher said Liverpool’s skipper “covered every blade,” as he stood tall on a tough night.
Florian Wirtz (7.65) was the Reds’ third-best player at the Stadium of Light, as his impressive form continues.
What the stats say
According to the stats-focused FotMob, Van Dijk stood out among his teammates, getting an unrivalled 8.6 rating.
He wasn’t only Liverpool’s match-winner, but also defended doggedly, albeit not catching the eye as much as Konate.
Van Dijk’s tally of 14 defensive contributions was the best from either side, as was his mammoth 14 clearances.
Andy Robertson enjoyed a good evening in place of Milos Kerkez at left-back, showing there is still life in the Liverpool legend.
He created the joint-most chances alongside Cody Gakpo (three) and played the second-most passes into the final third for the visitors (10), behind Van Dijk (13).
Alexis Mac Allister has come in for criticism this season, but he fought impressively, winning nine out of 12 ground duels. Nobody won more.
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