NK Maribor v Liverpool: Reds showing they’re just as hot without Mané

An explosive Champions League clash between Maribor and Liverpool saw the Reds completely demolish the home team in an astonishing 7-0 win.

After Sadio Mané’s latest injury disaster, Kopites were cursing the team’s bad luck. It looked bleak for Liverpool as they prepared to face two UCL clashes vs Maribor and some important Premier League games without the Senegalese winger.

But tonight’s display proved all worriers and doubters wrong. The Red Men completely tore the home side apart. Maribor could only watch in horror as goal after goal sank into the back of their net.

Sensational strikes

The first goal came only four minutes into the first half. Roberto Firmino – the Number 9 who’s been a little elusive lately, bounced back into action and put Liverpool in front almost immediately. His cool and calm strike brushed past the keeper after great build up play from Mohamed Salah.

The new winger scored two of his own after Philippe Coutinho made a sublime chip straight into the back of the net. Surely one of the signings of the summer?!

Leading 4-0 at halftime, Liverpool’s confidence only grew as they strolled into the second segment of the game. Three more goals came and saw Firmino bag the second brace on the scoresheet.

The other two were huge milestones for their creators. Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain smashed all negative critique with his ball in, marking his first goal for Liverpool FC.

Academy riser Trent Alexander-Arnold rounded the game off as he netted Liverpool’s seventh of the night. The first of many Champions League goals for the youngster, I’m sure.

Unstoppable team play

Tonight was one of the first games in a while where the Reds truly played as a unit. Klopp’s changes in midfield eradicated the lethargy and sloppiness that usually holds the team back. Liverpool’s new-found quick fire passing completely dominated the full 90 minutes.

Although a few criticisms could be made, overall the Reds were superb. Goals came from the front and back and the clever runs and link up play kept the pressure high on Maribor. Everything was much more fluid and seeing masses of creativity in midfield was like reuniting with a long-lost lover.

Just think of what else could’ve happened had Mané been fit enough to play!

James Milner was one of the most influential players on the pitch. Klopp should consider making the Milner > Henderson strategy more permanent. Fantastic player and undoubtedly captain material.

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Progressing forward

Liverpool have shown they still have fire in their bellies and world-class talent in their squad. After tonight’s unbelievable performance, spirits are sky-high moving forward in the Champions League.

After Sevilla’s dreadful 5-1 away loss against Spartak Moscow, Klopp and his men take top of the table in Group E on goal difference. Former leaders Sevilla now sit anxiously in third place.

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The Reds face Tottenham at Wembley Stadium for their next fixture. But after tonight’s display, there’s no reason why they can’t pull another sensational win out of the bag.

The next Champions League clash will take place on 1 November and it’s another meeting with Maribor. Only this time it’s at Anfield.

Next: Player ratings: Maribor v Liverpool 7-0 demolition

Tonight’s victory should have Klopp mulling a lot over in his head during their flight back to Merseyside. Will he stick with his changes after such a fiery performance? I sure hope so, because this formula is something seriously special. Title winning special.