With the pressure on and qualification for the knockout stage of the
Champions League in the balance,
Liverpool delivered a performance befitting European champions. The dream of a third consecutive final appearance and return to Istanbul remains alive for Jürgen Klopp’s team after overcoming Salzburg in some style. They made it look easy in the end. It was anything but.
Liverpool finished top of Group E with a victory built on the composure and experience of champions, plus the brilliant execution of their front line. The champions of Austria played their part in an enthralling finale but from the moment Sadio Mané set up Naby Keïta – both former Salzburg players – for the opening goal the visitors assumed complete control.
Mohamed Salah, guilty of several misses beforehand, struck an exquisite second moments later and Klopp’s team eased into the knockout phase they cherish.