Liverpool Vs Real Madrid 2022 Final: Player Ratings

The Liverpool vs. Real Madrid Champions League final in 2022 was a clash of titans, a game filled with drama, tension, and ultimately, a moment of glory for Real Madrid. This article dives deep into the player ratings, analyzing each player's performance and their contribution to this memorable match. Guys, get ready for a detailed breakdown of how each player fared on that fateful night!

Liverpool Player Ratings

Liverpool entered the final as slight favorites, boasting a formidable attacking lineup and a rock-solid defense. Let's dissect how each Liverpool player performed, shall we?

Goalkeeper and Defense

• Alisson Becker (7/10): Alisson, Liverpool's reliable shot-stopper, had a decent game. He made a few crucial saves, but unfortunately, he couldn't keep out Vinícius Júnior's decisive goal. His distribution was typically solid, and he commanded his area well. However, in a final of this magnitude, a clean sheet is what's truly desired, and that just wasn't happening on this instance. A 7/10 reflects a performance that was good, but not quite enough to swing the game in Liverpool's favor.

• Trent Alexander-Arnold (6/10): Trent's attacking prowess is undeniable, but defensively, he had a tough time against Vinícius Júnior. While he delivered some dangerous crosses, his primary responsibility was to contain the Brazilian winger, and he struggled at times. The goal came from his side, which slightly stains his rating. It’s a game of fine margins, and unfortunately, Trent found himself on the wrong side of them on the big stage. His passing accuracy was a bit off compared to his usual high standards. Maybe the pressure got to him? A 6/10 feels fair, considering both his attacking contributions and defensive vulnerabilities.

• Ibrahima Konaté (7.5/10): Konaté was arguably Liverpool's best defender on the night. His strength, pace, and composure were evident as he dealt with Real Madrid's attacking threats. He made several important interceptions and tackles, showcasing why he's become such an integral part of Liverpool's backline. His performance offered a glimmer of hope amidst the disappointment. He was assertive in the air and quick on the ground. He was arguably their man of the match. A well-deserved 7.5/10.

• Virgil van Dijk (7/10): Van Dijk, usually a colossus at the back, had a relatively quiet game by his high standards. He wasn't directly at fault for the goal but didn't exude his usual aura of invincibility. He made some important clearances, but Real Madrid's forwards managed to find space and cause problems. He showcased his leadership qualities, organizing the defense, but even he couldn't stem the tide completely. We have come to expect a 9 or 10 performance, but the quite performance only garnered him a 7/10.

• Andrew Robertson (6.5/10): Robertson put in his usual energetic performance, bombing up and down the left flank. He provided an outlet in attack and worked tirelessly defensively. However, his final ball wasn't always accurate, and he faced a tough opponent in Dani Carvajal. He contributed defensively with important tackles and interceptions, he was still a threat going forward, delivering crosses and supporting the attack. Overall, a solid but not spectacular performance earns him a 6.5/10.

Midfield

• Fabinho (6/10): Fabinho, the midfield anchor, had a mixed game. He broke up some Real Madrid attacks but was also bypassed too easily at times. His passing was generally accurate, but he didn't exert his usual dominance in the midfield battle. He needed to be more decisive in his tackles and interceptions. His performance wasn't poor, but it wasn't the commanding display Liverpool needed. 6/10 seems about right.

• Jordan Henderson (5.5/10): Henderson's energy and work rate were evident, but he struggled to impose himself on the game. His passing lacked its usual precision, and he didn't offer enough creativity in midfield. His experience was invaluable, but he couldn't quite grab the game by the scruff of the neck. Liverpool needed more dynamism and creativity from the midfield, and Henderson couldn't quite provide it on the night, resulting in a 5.5/10.

• Thiago Alcântara (6/10): Thiago's inclusion was a gamble due to his recent injury, and it didn't quite pay off. While he showed flashes of brilliance, his overall impact was limited. He struggled to control the tempo of the game, and his passing wasn't as incisive as usual. He showed glimpses of his class, but he wasn't able to dictate the game as he usually does. He was subbed off in the second half. A 6/10 reflects his limited impact.

Attack

• Mohamed Salah (7/10): Salah was Liverpool's biggest threat, but Courtois denied him time and again. He had several shots on target, but the Real Madrid goalkeeper was in inspired form. Salah’s persistence was commendable. He kept trying, but it was just not his night. He gets a 7/10 for his efforts, but he will be disappointed he couldn't find the back of the net.

• Sadio Mané (6.5/10): Mané had a lively start, testing Courtois early on. However, his influence waned as the game progressed. He worked hard but couldn't find the space to make a decisive impact. He was always a threat, but Madrid's defense did a good job of keeping him relatively quiet. A 6.5/10 reflects a performance that was decent but not game-changing.

• Luis Díaz (6/10): Díaz brought energy and directness to the attack, but he struggled to break down Real Madrid's defense. His dribbling skills were evident, but he couldn't find the final pass or shot to make a difference. He was a constant threat with his pace and trickery, but Madrid managed to contain him. He eventually was subbed off in the second half. A 6/10 feels appropriate.

Real Madrid Player Ratings

Real Madrid, the kings of the Champions League, once again demonstrated their ability to win on the biggest stage. Let's examine how each of their players performed in this epic final.

Goalkeeper and Defense

• Thibaut Courtois (10/10): Courtois was the undisputed man of the match. He made a series of incredible saves, denying Liverpool's attackers time and again. His performance was nothing short of heroic, single-handedly keeping Real Madrid in the game. He was unbeatable, a true wall in the Real Madrid goal. This was arguably one of the greatest goalkeeping performances in a Champions League final. A perfect 10/10.

• Dani Carvajal (7.5/10): Carvajal had an excellent game, containing Robertson and providing a solid defensive presence on the right flank. He was disciplined, focused, and made several important tackles. He showed his experience and composure. He limited Robertson’s effectiveness and contributed to Real Madrid’s defensive stability. A 7.5/10 is well-deserved.

• Éder Militão (7/10): Militão put in a solid performance at the heart of the Real Madrid defense. He was strong in the tackle and good in the air, helping to keep Liverpool's attackers at bay. He made some crucial clearances and interceptions, helping to maintain Real Madrid's defensive shape. Overall, a reliable and effective performance earns him a 7/10.

• David Alaba (7/10): Alaba, like Militão, was solid and composed in defense. His experience and leadership were invaluable as he organized the backline. He wasn’t flashy but was positionally sound and made important contributions to the team’s defensive effort. A 7/10 reflects his reliable performance.

• Ferland Mendy (6.5/10): Mendy had a decent game defensively, but his contributions in attack were limited. He contained Salah well for most of the match, but offered less going forward than Carvajal on the other side. His main job was to defend, and he did that reasonably well. He gets a 6.5/10.

Midfield

• Casemiro (7.5/10): Casemiro was the midfield enforcer, breaking up Liverpool's attacks and providing a shield for the defense. His tackling was fierce, and his positional awareness was excellent. He protected the back four effectively and disrupted Liverpool’s rhythm. He showed his importance to the Real Madrid team. A 7.5/10 is a fair reflection of his contribution.

• Toni Kroos (7/10): Kroos displayed his usual composure and passing range in midfield. He controlled the tempo of the game and dictated play with his accurate distribution. He might not have been the flashiest player on the pitch, but his influence was undeniable. His ability to pick out a pass and control the midfield was key to Real Madrid’s success. A 7/10 for the German maestro.

• Luka Modrić (7/10): Modrić, like Kroos, brought his experience and quality to the midfield. His dribbling skills and vision were evident as he helped to create chances for Real Madrid. He wasn't as dominant as in some games, but his contribution was still significant. His creativity and ability to find space were crucial in Madrid’s build-up play. A 7/10 seems appropriate.

Attack

• Federico Valverde (7/10): Valverde was a key player, providing the assist for Vinícius Júnior's goal. His energy, pace, and versatility were a constant threat to Liverpool's defense. He was tireless in his running. His assist was the game's decisive moment. A 7/10 for his valuable contribution.

• Karim Benzema (6.5/10): Benzema, the Ballon d'Or winner, had a relatively quiet game by his standards. He didn't have many clear-cut chances, but his presence up front occupied Liverpool's defenders. He still played a pivotal role in leading the line and holding up the ball. His link-up play was good, but he didn't have the opportunities to score. A 6.5/10 reflects a performance where he contributed without being at his absolute best.

• Vinícius Júnior (8/10): Vinícius Júnior scored the winning goal and was a constant threat with his pace and dribbling. He gave Alexander-Arnold a torrid time and proved to be the match-winner. His goal was well-taken, and his overall performance was excellent. An 8/10 for the match-winner.

Substitutes

Both teams made substitutions to try and influence the game. For Liverpool, Diogo Jota, Roberto Firmino, and Naby Keïta came on, but none of them could make a significant impact. Eduardo Camavinga, Rodrygo, and Dani Ceballos came on for Real Madrid and helped to see out the victory. Their contributions were solid, maintaining the team's shape and intensity.

Conclusion

The 2022 Champions League final was a game of fine margins, with Real Madrid ultimately triumphing over Liverpool. Courtois's heroics and Vinícius Júnior's goal proved to be the difference. While Liverpool had their chances, they couldn't find a way past the inspired Belgian goalkeeper. Real Madrid's experience and resilience shone through, securing their 14th Champions League title. The player ratings reflect the individual contributions to this classic encounter, highlighting the standout performers and those who perhaps didn't quite reach their usual heights. What a game, guys!