Real Madrid’s second-half goal was enough to hand Liverpool a 1-0 defeat in the UEFA Champions League final. And it was another painful end to the season for Liverpool.
UEFA Champions League Final – Liverpool vs Real Madrid: Player Ratings
Goalkeepers & Defenders
Allison Becker (GK) – 7/10
His first touch came in the 24th minute of a quiet first half until he was pushed into the spotlight late with heart-in-mouth stuff on the ground before VAR stepped in.
On an otherwise dull night for the Brazilian, he could do little to stop Real’s goal and quickly deny the Spaniards on the counter late on.
Trent Alexander-Arnold (RB) – 7/10
The spotlight was shone on Alexander-Arnold and his duel with Vinicius Jr in the build-up to the game. And he lost his man for Real’s goal as Liverpool battled an overload.
He had flashes of brilliance in the final third. A whizzing ball through the Real defense toward Diaz was a particular gem. And he was constantly willing to propel the Reds forward in their pursuit of a goal.
Ibrahima Konate (CB) – 9.5/10
Konate was the epitome of calm and control. Moreover, he was looking at ease on the vast platform in his hometown and playing his first European Cup final at 23.
Konate began his evening by shrugging off Vinicius Jr on the wing. And racing upfield, a front-foot attitude that was crucial for Liverpool.
We’ve got a monster player on our hands!
Virgil van Dijk (CB) – 7/10
The opposition targeted his center-back partner once again. But when he was pulled into the action, he remained as composed as you’d expect.
His vision opened up the field for his passing range. Yet he was the one who was pushed out of position for Real’s goal before being thrown up front in a desperate attempt.
Andy Robertson (LB) – 5/10
His effort to press ultimately opened the Reds up for Real’s goal with no one available to cover his vacated area. Moreover, he was lacking the potency Liverpool would have hoped for.
Midfielders
Fabinho (CDM) – 8/10
The Brazilian went on the field for Liverpool for the first time since Aston Villa. And he didn’t appear to be dusting off any cobwebs.
It was crucial for Liverpool when they switched formations late in the game in search of a goal. With Naby Keita sitting behind him, looking to sweep up any balls that fell his way.
His inspector gadget legs were out, but the referee wasn’t so keen on that.
Jordan Henderson (CM) – 7/10
The captain was more than up to the task and often had the right ideas moving forward; nonetheless, the execution did not always go as planned.
His game was typified by a superb cover run on Vinicius Jr to aid the defense. And his effort rate was unquestionable as he attempted to motivate his team.
Without a doubt, he’ll get another chance to shuffle shortly.
Thiago (CM) – 7.5/10
After all the worries leading up to the game, a warm-up posed whether or not he would start.
It turned out to be the former, as he showed no indications of his Achilles injury in the game. Pinging passes with his superb accuracy while also disrupting Real Madrid’s play.
Forwards
Mohammed Salah (RW) – 7/10
With a four-year revenge mission on his hands, you could argue that he put too much pressure on himself. Straining it too much at times in the general play.
He had chances to batter Courtois’ goal, but the Real goalkeeper was in fine form. Frustrating him with one outstanding save after another – as is customary against Liverpool.
Luis Diaz (LW) – 7.5/10
Diaz was back in Paris four months after landing in the French capital on his way to Liverpool. This time was to participate in his first Champions League final.
Diaz was a reliable option on the left side, and he went above and above to track back and support Robertson.
Klopp’s first substitute was due to tired legs.
Sadio Mane (CF) – 7/10
Mane has had a trophy-laden 2022 for both club and country. And while he gave it his all in Paris with his relentless runs, it was not to be.
Mane had the only clear-cut chance to put the Reds ahead during Liverpool’s first-half dominance. But Courtois was up to the challenge, tipping the ball onto the upright and into his hands.
He couldn’t afford a foul, but he wasn’t alone – just ask Diaz.
Let’s hope this isn’t his final appearance in Liverpool red.
Substitutes
Diego Jota – 7/10
He was at the right places at the right times, and he had opportunities. But he couldn’t quite find the golden touch.
Roberto Firmino – 6.5/10
He was bright; his touch had improved dramatically since Wolves. And there was little doubt in his mind that he wanted to turn the game around.
Naby Keita (CM) – 5.5/10
Composure was not his friend when he was thrown into the fray at the most critical moment – it burned over when he had all the time in the world.
That was all for the UEFA Champions League final 2021-22!
