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Eight headers won, three tackles, 5/6 long balls: Liverpool star slips under radar against Porto
Liverpool made it five wins from five on Wednesday night as they eventually beat Porto 2-0 – and Joel Matip was sensational once again.
In what was a makeshift defence, Matip partnered Ibrahima Konate at centre-back as Virgil van Dijk enjoyed a rest. Neco Williams at right-back.
With Andy Robertson still trying to shake of an injury, Greece international Konstantinos Tsimikas played on the left. Tyler Morton in midfield.
It was a comfortable win for the Reds, though they had to ride their luck at times. Otavio should have scored, Mehdi Taremi should have done better.
But a wonder strike from Thiago and a 17th of the season for Mo Salah saw Liverpool win 2-0. Matip was excellent again. An eighth clean sheet in 21-22.
That is, in just 15 league and cup outings. Matip is seemingly like a fine wine, getting better with age and the 30-year-old’s stats prove it.
Matip stats: Underrated Liverpool star shines for Reds against Porto
Of all the Liverpool players, Matip’s stats stand out. On the ball, the Cameroon defender completed 69 of his 77 passes,
They also say of his six attempted long balls, Matip completed five. Impressive, from the £100,000-a-week () centre-back.
Defensively, his stats continue to impress. He won eight headers throughout, more than double any other player on the pitch.
He won three tackles, joint second with Neco Williams and produced four clearances – again, more than any other player on the pitch, Porto included.
While the headlines will go with Thiago for his effort, Salah for his continued form and Morton for his debut – Matip was just as crucial.
