Liverpool easily defeated Marseille with a 3-0 win at the Orange Velodrome during the Champions League, propelling the Reds into the top eight of this season’s league phase.
With Mohamed Salah making his long-awaited return to the starting XI after returning from the AFCON, Dominik Szoboszlai broke the deadlock for Liverpool just before half-time with an impressive free-kick.
In the 72nd minute, Jeremie Frimpong forced Marseille goalkeeper Geronimo Rulli into an own goal, while substitute Cody Gakpo added a third, marking a remarkable European night for Arne Slot‘s team.
The last time Marseille defeated Liverpool was nearly 20 years ago in 2007, and they posed little challenge in altering that record. Liverpool has now extended its unbeaten streak across all competitions to 13 games, with Slot hoping his team will maintain this form during their upcoming match against Bournemouth this weekend.
Here are The Independent’s player ratings for Liverpool’s victory over Marseille:
Alisson – 8
Alisson kept a clean sheet, confidently commanding his area and claiming crosses seamlessly. He was only called upon for one notable save against Amine Gouiri in the first half. Although he may not be at his peak, he remains one of the most reliable goalkeepers in football today, making a spectacular save from Mason Greenwood and another crucial stop from Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang late in the match.
Jeremie Frimpong – 8
Frimpong played effectively, making significant contributions in both defense and offense. He successfully delivered crosses despite Marseille’s wide formation and was instrumental in Liverpool’s second goal, forcing Rulli’s deflection. His tireless efforts kept the pressure on Marseille’s players throughout the match.
Joe Gomez – 7
Gomez showcased solid defensive work in collaboration with Virgil van Dijk, calmly dismantling Marseille’s attacking plays. He missed a header that wouldn’t have counted, still waiting for his first career goal, but demonstrated a composed performance that suggests he could be a regular starter moving forward.
Virgil van Dijk – 7
Van Dijk played a steady game, limiting Timothy Weah’s impact and providing his usual impeccable long passes, primarily to Szoboszlai, whilst making vital interceptions.
Milos Kerkez – 8
Kerkez held his ground well against Mason Greenwood, although his delivery at times fell short. He was a significant presence defensively and, had his offensive contributions matched his defensive display, he could have been the standout player of the match.
Ryan Gravenberch – 7
Gravenberch tracked back effectively and contributed to the midfield, winning the free-kick that led to Liverpool’s opener. He also assisted Gakpo’s goal late in the game, demonstrating versatility in his play.
Alexis Mac Allister – 7
Mac Allister had a near miss early on but contributed significantly to the attacking flow of the game. He continues to form a good understanding in midfield, igniting attacks until the final whistle.
Dominik Szoboszlai – 9
Szoboszlai delivered an outstanding performance, netting a brilliant free-kick on his 100th start for the club and connecting well with his teammates. His assist for Gakpo’s goal further underlined his influence, marking his seventh goal in all competitions this season and showcasing his growing reputation as a free-kick specialist.
Mohamed Salah – 6
Salah’s return from AFCON was unremarkable overall, with moments of brilliance clouded by missed opportunities. Although he set up a potential goal for Ekitike and nearly scored himself, he seemed to lack his usual clinical edge.
Florian Wirtz – 6
Wirtz appeared slightly off form, struggling with his first touches and showing hesitance during crucial attacking moments, despite showcasing improvement as the match progressed.
Hugo Ekitike – 7
Ekitike was a persistent threat, hitting the post and having a goal disallowed for offside. His movement and passing demonstrated his potential, even if he didn’t find the net on this occasion.
Substitutes:
Curtis Jones for Wirtz, 79 – 6
Jones didn’t see much action but provided valuable runs to stretch a fatigued Marseille side.
Cody Gakpo for Ekitike, 79 – 7
Gakpo made an immediate impact with a well-placed pass to Salah and later capped off his performance with a composed finish for the third goal in injury time.