Our German boss chose a strong starting eleven for Wednesday’s Vitality Stadium match to stay competitive in all competitions.

After a disappointing showing against Toulouse last week, the Irishman wanted to shake off any rust with this domestic cup run. As chances were shared, he had good hands in the first half. Under strong winds, defending a superbly taken corner was impossible, resulting in the equalizer. Overall, the backup keeper played well.

Kostas Tsimikas—6.0

As the first-choice left-back, his manager wanted him to find his rhythm. As the game started slowly, he was quiet. Wet weather made the game an end-to-end cup tie, therefore he struggled.

Joe Gomez—7.0

He was a regular overlap outlet for Liverpool in the first half. He was aware of danger and continues his outstanding form. A good performance that might make him the club’s long-term right-back if Trent moves into the middle.

Joël Matip — 7.0

The experienced campaigner is having a good season, playing one game per week. As the visitors dominated possession, the Cameroonian was the reliable defender. Strong leadership at the root of a changing team.

Jarell Quansah—8.0

Man of Match

It was surprising to see him go for last Thursday’s Europa League success, but the vibrant young Englishman is on the rise. A solid first half saw him use the ball well with two searching balls. In the second quarter, he was under more pressure, but he played well and maturely.

Curtis Jones: 6.0

Following that ludicrous and excessive three-match suspension, the young Englishman would have competed for his elite starting shirt. Since his role was recycling play, he was a good ball controller and mover. He may start the weekend following a good game.

Wataru Endō – 6.0

After his Liverpool goal against Toulouse last week, the veteran but hesitant Japan captain gained confidence. As his teammates controlled the action, he worked hard as the defense’s center shield. Reliable and steady.

Harvey Elliott: 7.0

A good first half, but he should have scored with a clean chance. He mostly played well but almost gave up a breakaway in the first period. Incisive before departing field.

Dominik Szoboszlai—7.0

Roy of the Rovers and exceptional midfielder started this game on the right of the attack, a rare midweek start. He provided width, pace, and continuous delivery into the box in a lively first half. He had two snap shots that missed the goal as the Reds threatened more first-half goals. After the break, he was active but unproductive, especially under tough conditions.

Salah – 7.0

After his embarrassing 11th place finish in this year’s Ballon d’Or, the Egyptian King is clearly determined to score as many goals as possible. He started in the middle but appeared more comfortable drifting right in a productive first half. He was more productive once Darwin entered the middle.

Cody Gakpo—7.0

A welcome return to starting duties after his injury layoff. After taking advantage of one of the many first-half corners, he scored from close range. After injury, fun outing.

Subbed 81 mins

Subs:

On 61, Darwin Núñez scored 8.0.

Scored a spectacular goal

Alexis MacAllister: 7.0 (61).

A steady game requiring more control.

Trent Alexander-Arnold: 7.0 (61).

A determined vice-captain cameo.

Ryan Gravenberch—6.0 (76).

Trouble entering the game.

Diogo Jota—N/A (81).

Activated.

The Manager:

Jurgen Klopp — 8.0

The manager chose a strong team to crush the lesser rival. After a 4-3-3 start, he wanted his best attacking players to score early, which they did in a terrific first half. Dominik was oddly used high on the right, allowing Harvey to slide into the middle three early. The first goal came after several corners, which helped calm the halftime team discussion.

The substitutions appeared intentional, although they likely matched the injection needed. Darwin’s early goal from outside the area proved his front line change paid well. Game management and entering the next round hat dominated the rest of the contest.