It wasn’t an easy start for Liverpool. Looking rusty, a blinding error from goalkeeper Simon Mignolet gave Bordeaux an early lead that looked to unsettle Jurgen Klopp’s men before a James Milner penalty and a Christian Benteke wonder strike helped to seal all three points.
And with that, The Reds have made it through to the next round of the competition, which could come in handy when attracting new players to the club in the new year.
See who we thought were the winners and losers of the night below…
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Simon Mignolet: 5/10
A ridiculous error to give away the penalty box free kick. Atoned slightly in the dying minutes with an impressive save from a free kick.
Nathaniel Clyne: 8/10
A bundle of energy down the right flank and put in a stunning cross for Benteke’s goal.
Kolo Toure: 7/10
A few hairy moments, but did his job and even managed to venture forward during the first half.
Dejan Lovren: 6/10
A quiet night for the Croatian. Liverpool fans will consider that a victory within itself.
Alberto Moreno: 6/10
Did well for the most part, but had been identified as the weakness in the link at the back.
Lucas Leiva: 7/10
Admirably protected the back four, but visibly tired towards the end.
Joe Allen: 6/10
Just couldn’t get into the game, though he had a few nice touches and passes early on.
James Milner: 6/10
Took his penalty well, but this was yet another game that he struggled to really get into.
Jordon Ibe: 7/10
Burst forward very well and looked to keep the Bordeaux defenders on the back foot. He should take confidence from this performance.
Roberto Firmino: 5/10
Very poor from the Brazil international. Couldn’t find his rhythm at all.
Christian Benteke: 9/10
Started slowly but once he got going he was unstoppable. Took his goal fantastically and was unlucky with two more that were ruled out.
Subs:
Emre Can: 6/10 – Carried on from where Joe Allen left off.
Adam Lallana: 6/10 – Failed to make an impact from Firmino, but by that point Reds were on the defensive.
Divock Origi: 5/10 – Had no time to do anything.