Michael
Ajax looked strong out of the blocks and threatened in the opening 20 minutes of the game. They could have been two goals up early on with decent efforts from Steven Berghuis.
The Reds then took perhaps undeserved lead into the break after a dinked Mohamed Salah finish rounded off their best move of the half. Nunez could have made it 2 before the break, but he smashed his shot against the post.
Liverpool with confidence from the late half Salah goal switched up a gear in the second period, carving out a comfortable lead through goals from Darwin Nunez and Harvey Elliott.
An important away win after the defeat to Nottingham Forest, ensuring the Reds a place in the latter stages of the Champions League courtesy of a second-placed finish behind Napoli, leaving Ajax battling Rangers for a Europa League place.
Curtis Jones, Fabio Carvalho and Stefan Bajcetic all enjoyed impressive cameos as the visitors comfortably saw out an important win on the biggest stage in European football. Reds fans enjoyed Klopp giving our youth a chance, resting key players, staying true to his philosophy even under pressure in the midst of a mixed start to this season’s campaign.
Kloop speaking on BT Sport, Liverpool boss Klopp said: “They had a top half an hour from a specific moment where they created a lot of pressure and did really well and we had to defend with a lot of passion. We scored a goal which was exceptional. The second half we had a really good start and controlled the game from then on.”
On Nunez’s miss, Klopp added: “I think even he was surprised! [when Firmino passed for the shot on the woodwork]. He had a really good game in both directions, helped defending and played with a big heart today so hopefully we took him off early enough!”
Reflecting on the game further, Klopp continued: “We changed system again a little bit, we had to. We thought it would make sense. Ajax are a good football team and full of confidence always and you have to adjust. We did that and fine. It is clear. We are through to the knockouts and I will never take that for granted. Really helpful for the club, of course it gives the lift. Tonight we all feel great and we have a few days to prepare for Leeds.”
Ajax v Liverpool Highlights
