Liverpool's goalkeeper Alisson Becker pulled off a masterclass performance to lead his team to an unexpected 1-0 win against Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) in the first leg of their Champions League round-of-16 encounter.
The Brazilian goalkeeper made a record nine saves, earning a clean sheet as he labeled the performance "possibly the best" of his life.
Alisson's Record-Breaking Performance Denies PSG
Confronted with an in-form PSG team, Liverpool prepared for a hectic battle on the Parc des Princes pitch.
As PSG's attacking line of Ousmane Dembélé, Bradley Barcola, and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia pressed relentlessly, Alisson was repeatedly called upon throughout the match. PSG, even with their possession and attacking dominance, were unable to breach the Liverpool goalkeeper, whose heroics left the hosts frustrated and his team still in the hunt, ESPN reports.
Alisson's display was nothing short of phenomenal, as he made the most saves by a goalkeeper in a Champions League game this season and kept a clean sheet. Speaking about his performance, he said to TNT Sports:
"Yeah, probably of my life I think ... The manager was telling us how hard it would be to play against PSG, how good they are with the ball. We have to be ready to suffer. So when you see the clips as well from the opponent to know what is coming, so much quality on their side. But we as well, we work hard."
Harvey Elliott's Late Winner Seals the Victory
While Alisson was rock solid between the posts, Liverpool could not breach PSG's defense. However, substitute Harvey Elliott left his mark instantly, scoring the winner just 47 seconds after entering the field in the 87th minute.
The Guardian took note that Elliott's goal stunned the home fans and gave Liverpool a significant advantage going into the second leg at Anfield. The young midfielder attributed the victory to his teammates' tenacity.
Elliot said that the full credit goes to the team because all of them create opportunities. He also thanked Alisson for his defense.
Arne Slot Hails Alisson as the World's Best Goalkeeper
Liverpool head coach Arne Slot was impressed with his goalkeeper, describing him as the world's best. He said that he couldn't even think of any goalkeeper who has played at this level.
The 1-0 win leaves Liverpool in a great position for the second leg at Anfield. With Alisson performing better than ever and their defense rock solid, Liverpool will be expecting to complete the job on home turf. PSG, meanwhile, will have to beat the apparently invincible Alisson if they are to keep their Champions League hopes alive.
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