Van Dijk – 9, Gakpo – 5: Liverpool player ratings in Atletico Madrid win

Liverpool Player Ratings vs. Atletico Madrid: Van Dijk’s Header Sinks Atleti 3–2

Van Dijk’s stoppage-time header ensured Liverpool’s Champions League campaign got off to a winning start.

Gakpo, Van Dijk / Collage: Tribuna.com. Liverpool

Virgil van Dijk (9/10):

Liverpool’s captain was simply dominant at the back, winning every aerial duel and controlling the game. When the Reds needed a late winner, he stepped up perfectly with a decisive header.

Ryan Gravenberch (8/10):

The most influential player on the pitch, Gravenberch was outstanding, especially in the first half. He won the free-kick that led to the opener and then played Salah through for the second goal, dictating the game with intelligence and composure.

Mohamed Salah (8/10):

Buoyed by his recent crucial penalty at Burnley, Salah delivered his most effective performance of the season. His first goal had a bit of luck, but his control and finish for the second was pure quality.

Ibrahima Konaté (7/10):

The France international was solid as ever, commanding in the air and distributing the ball cleanly. He showed why he remains a key figure in defence despite Liverpool missing out on signing Marc Guehi.

Andy Robertson (7/10):

Starting ahead of Milos Kerkez, Robertson had a confident outing at left-back. Solid defensively and effective going forward, he did his chances of retaining the spot no harm.

Dominik Szoboszlai (7/10):

Another energetic and versatile performance from the Hungarian, controlling the midfield alongside Gravenberch and providing dangerous deliveries from set-pieces.

Florian Wirtz (7/10):

The £100 million man took another step forward, creating more chances than anyone else on the pitch. Clever movement, dribbling, and touches kept Liverpool attacking, though he was unlucky not to assist.

Alexander Isak (7/10):

A surprise starter, the Swede looked sharp in his 57 minutes and began forming a good understanding with Wirtz.

Alisson Becker (6.5/10):

Frustrated by Llorente’s controversial goal, Alisson couldn’t do much about the equaliser, which came after a wicked deflection. He remained solid otherwise.

Jeremie Frimpong (6/10):

Back in the starting eleven after injury, Frimpong was lively on the right flank. He had a golden chance set up by Wirtz but failed to convert.

Hugo Ekitike (6/10):

Came on just before the hour mark and showed some promising touches. Missed a big chance late, though, after a tricky cross from Salah.

Conor Bradley (5/10):

Replaced Frimpong at right-back for the final 30 minutes. Offered less attacking threat and was booked after being caught high up the field.

Alexis Mac Allister (5/10):

Used as a second-half sub after a knock. Struggled to get into the game and was unlucky to deflect Llorente’s goal past Alisson.

Cody Gakpo (5/10):

A flat performance from the player who started the season well. With Isak back fit, Gakpo’s place in the starting XI now looks under serious threat.

Rio Ngumoha (N/A):

Only came on for the final 15 minutes, showing glimpses but too little time to judge.

Milos Kerkez (N/A):

Replaced Robertson just before full-time; not enough time to make an impact.