Liverpool secured top spot in the Champions League table despite losing 3-2 to PSV Eindhoven on Wednesday night.
Arne Slot made nine changes for the game in the Netherlands, with Jayden Danns and James McConnell making their Champions League debuts.
The Reds took the lead in the 28th minute through Cody Gakpo’s penalty, but Johan Bakayoko equalised seven minutes later.
Liverpool then went in front again as Harvey Elliott scored in the 40th minute of the match at the Philips Stadion.
However, late first-half goals by Ismael Saibari and Ricardo Pepi turned the game around for PSV, who finished 14th in the Champions League table.
Despite the defeat, there were some positives, with Andrew Robertson singling three players out for praise including two youngsters.
Ricardo Pepi of PSV Eindhoven, James McConnell of FC Liverpool and Tygo Land of PSV Eindhoven battle for the ball during the UEFA Champions League ...
Andrew Robertson hails Liverpool trio James McConnell, Jayden Danns and Federico Chiesa
Robertson, speaking to TNT Sports after the game, said McConnell and Danns were both “great” in the match.
The Liverpool full-back also praised Federico Chiesa for his “really good” display along with a crucial 90 minutes under his belt.
“They were really good,” said Robertson. “McConnell was great in midfield and driving forward. Big Danns was great up top and held up the ball really well.
“We also had experienced players getting a chance, Federico was really good and got the 90 minutes he needed.”
How McConnell, Danns and Chiesa fared for Liverpool against PSV
McConnell was one of the standout players on the night, showing composure and bravery on the ball throughout and making a great sliding tackle in the second half.
Danns’ full Liverpool debut was decent as he held up the ball well at times and created several good opportunities, although the referee should have given him more protection.
Meanwhile, Chiesa won Liverpool the penalty for their opener and then forced the keeper into the save that led to Elliott’s goal.
Admittedly, the Italy international did spurn a big chance when the game was goalless and then could’ve set up Elliott in space when he moved to the left flank.
Nonetheless, Chiesa’s display was solid as Liverpool fans praised his efforts on the night, and crucially, he’s now looking fully match fit.
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