With Liverpool’s hopes of defending their Premier League title growing increasingly slim, the club now finds itself with a 0% chance of claiming a different piece of silverware, the Carabao Cup, after yet another defeat to Crystal Palace on Wednesday.
Despite a promising opening 40 minutes, Arne Slot’s youthful squad suffered a disastrous end to the first half.
It ultimately condemned Liverpool to their sixth loss in their last seven matches across all competitions.
While the display on the team level was obviously disappointing, how did the Reds rate individually on the night?
Starting XI:
Freddie Woodman: 6.5/10- There wasn’t much he could’ve done on any Palace goal—it was always going to be a tall order for the third-choice keeper to keep a clean sheet against a team that has absolutely had Liverpool’s number lately. Should still feel proud to provide five saves on his Reds debut.
Milos Kerkez: 6.5/10- Yet another mixed performance from the Hungarian. On one hand, he looked much improved in defending aerial situations—a weakness that has troubled him all season—but on the other, he was part of a back line that could have done more to stop Palace’s first two goals.
Andrew Robertson: 6/10- One of the defenders caught out for Palace’s second goal, Robertson ultimately failed to provide the steady leadership and veteran presence Liverpool desperately needed with so many young players in the lineup. He also offered little going forward; it was a flat, uninspired outing from the Scotsman. Pulled in the 67th minute.
Joe Gomez: 7/10- Overall, it was an unlucky outing for Gomez. He made several key blocks and clearances, but a deflection off him led to Palace’s opening goal. Still, he was one of the few players who could hold his head high after the final whistle.
Calvin Ramsay: 6.5/10- Was willing to throw his body around frequently in his first senior Liverpool appearance in almost three years and showed flashes going forward, but didn't have a great impact on the game. Still must be a good feeling for the 22 year-old to play under the Anfield lights again.
Alexis Mac Allister: 6/10- Expected more from one of the few title winners to feature. Mac Allister’s physicality is becoming a real concern—it feels like he’s been on the ground at multiple points in nearly every game this season. Subbed off as part of the triple change in the 67th minute.
Trey Nyoni: 6/10- A very quiet night from the 18-year-old. It may sound harsh given his age, but he’s struggled to make much of an impact in his recent senior appearances.
Wataru Endo: 6.5/10- Provided a defensive spark in midfield with solid pressing and key blocks, but completely lost track of Ismaila Sarr as the Palace forward completed his brace with a well-worked team goal. Despite that costly lapse, he still deserves more Premier League minutes—especially as Liverpool look to tighten up defensively if they’re to contend for any silverware this season.
Rio Ngumoha: 6.5/10- Exuded plenty of confidence on the ball in the first half, though he faded as the game went on. While it would have been great to see Rio score or maintain his attacking intent from the opening 45 minutes, it was nonetheless a decent outing for the 17-year old.
Federico Chiesa: 7.5/10- Easily Liverpool’s best player going forward—and likely the standout of the night. He repeatedly took on multiple defenders while maintaining passion and purpose, even as it became clear Liverpool would lose. He deserves significantly more minutes in other competitions.
Kieran Morrison: 6.5/10- Made some promising runs and had a few decent looks at goal, but his overall inexperience led to a lack of finishing touches. Not a bad showing for an 18-year old.
Substitutes:
Amara Nallo: 4/10- Clearly showing a red card problem, as he was sent off in the 78th minute—just as he was in his Champions League debut. It was the final nail in the coffin on a frustrating night.
Wellity Lucky: 5.5/10- Again, perhaps harsh given his age, but he was turned inside out by Yeremy Pino on Palace’s third goal after coming on in the 67th minute. While the first two goals appeared to stem from broader defensive issues, this one stood out as an individual lowlight.
Kaide Gordon: N/A- Not much to write about after coming on in the 67th minute.