Caoimhin Kelleher earned the highest average rating for his impressive performance in Liverpool’s 1-0 win over RB Leipzig, overshadowing Darwin Nunez’s match-winning goal. The 25-year-old goalkeeper made four saves and completed 83% of his passes, solidifying his position as Alisson’s perfect understudy. This impressive display has some pestering the question: is he Liverpool’s second-best goalkeeper of the Premier League era, eclipsing even the great Pepe Reina.
Liverpool’s defense did an excellent job overall, but it was Kelleher who deserves the most credit for the clean sheet. In his analysis, James Nalton of This Is Anfield noted that while the Reds’ defense was solid, “they have Kelleher to thank for the clean sheet.” Similarly, FotMob highlighted Kelleher’s four saves and near-flawless passing.
Nunez, who has faced criticism for his inconsistent finishing and lack of link-up play, proved his doubters wrong with a remarkable display. He was excellent, turning Mohamed Salah’s goal-bound header into the net with ease, and was always a willing runner. Paul Gorst of the Echo praised Nunez’s performance, stating he “led the line superbly” in the absence of Diogo Jota.
The Dutch duo of Virgil van Dijk and Ryan Gravenberch also stood out, with Gravenberch’s display earning high praise from Nalton. He highlighted an “effort covering in the defensive line to block a Xavi Simons cross” as Gravenberch’s standout moment, showcasing the 20-year-old’s exceptional defensive prowess. Van Dijk, as expected, was solid, but didn’t have a particularly notable game.
However, Trent Alexander-Arnold struggled, receiving the lowest score with a 6.5. While he didn’t always appear fully focused, he still managed to remain perfectly solid, but nowhere near the levels he’s set in the past. Despite the mixed bag, Liverpool’s victory will go down as a testament to the collective effort, with Kelleher and Nunez spearheading the charge.
