Liverpool destroys Porto in Champions League quarter-final tie

At Anfield, and in the first leg of the quarter-final tie in the Champions League, Liverpool took command over Porto with two beautiful first-half goals.

Just in the fifth minute of the game, Naby Keita put Liverpool in front with a shot from the edge of the penalty area and was deflected into the goal post off Oliver Torres.

The second goal came as a result of beautiful teamwork as Jordan Henderson broke the defense with a clean forward pass to Trent Alexander-Arnold, and then tapped in by Roberto Firmino as he received the low cross.

Although Porto created chances, Moussa Marega denied Porto what could have been a crucial away goal as he failed to convert great chances that presented itself.

Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson pulled off an excellent block using his feet to deny him in the half-hour and moments later the Mali international failed to connect fully with a volley from eight yards.

Although Maraga had two further chances in the second half of the game, Alisson was initially able to comfortably save at his near post and later watch on as the Porto striker blazed over the bar.

Alexander-Arnold deflected a cross with his arm following Alisson’s tipped away cross, as that was another nervous first-half moment for Liverpool. VAR checked the incident and awarded a corner rather than a spot-kick.

For a high tackle with his studs to Danilo Pereira’s shin, Mohammed Salah could have been sent off, but no foul was given after another VAR.

Liverpool also failed to net a third goal that would definitely have made them even more at ease but they will head to Portugal for the second leg of the tie next week as strong favourites to reach the semi-finals for the second year in a row.

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