Liverpool snapped a three-game losing streak with a 2-0 win over Fulham at Anfield, powered by a breakout performance from teenager Rio Ngumoha and a farewell-tour strike from Mohamed Salah.
Arne Slot’s men finally found their clinical edge on Saturday, securing their first league victory since February. The win keeps the Merseysiders firmly in the hunt for a top-five finish and Champions League qualification.
The evening was defined by a blend of youthful exuberance and veteran class, providing the perfect tonic for the Anfield faithful following recent domestic and European frustrations.
Liverpool Player Ratings
Giorgi Mamardashvili — 6
The goalkeeper had a relatively quiet evening as the defensive unit ahead of him limited Fulham’s clear-cut chances. He showed great composure when called upon, commanding his penalty area with authority and ensuring a clean sheet that will boost the squad’s confidence ahead of Tuesday’s European commitment.
Jeremie Frimpong — 6
Displaying his usual attacking flair, the full-back was a constant threat in the final third. While he flourished offensively, he occasionally looked vulnerable during quick transitions. However, his recovery pace and support from central teammates ensured his defensive lapses didn’t prove costly against the visitors’ wingers.
Ibrahima Konate — 5
It was a mixed bag for the Frenchman, who has struggled for form amid ongoing speculation regarding his future. While he avoided any major defensive blunders, his distribution was notably poor. His wastefulness in possession frequently invited unnecessary pressure, leaving fans anxious during Fulham’s brief spells of dominance.
Virgil van Dijk — 6
The captain provided a steadying influence, acting as the most proactive member of the backline. He recorded several vital blocks and organized the defense effectively during the second half. His reading of the game remained sharp, neutralizing Fulham’s aerial threats before they could test the goalkeeper.
Andrew Robertson — 6
In what is becoming a long goodbye for the legendary left-back, the Scotsman delivered a dependable and gritty performance. He balanced his defensive duties with occasional overlapping runs, providing the width needed to stretch the Fulham defense during a dominant first-half display.
Dominik Szoboszlai — 7
After facing criticism for his post-match antics following the FA Cup exit, the midfielder let his football do the talking. He covered a vast amount of ground and linked the play seamlessly between the lines. His energy in the middle of the park was instrumental in regaining control whenever the game turned scrappy.
Curtis Jones — 6
The local lad put in a tidy shift but saw his afternoon cut short. He was substituted at the interval after appearing to pick up a physical knock late in the first half. Before his exit, he helped maintain a high tempo and kept the ball moving efficiently in tight central spaces.
Rio Ngumoha — 9
The undisputed star of the show, the youngster’s performance was nothing short of breathtaking. He ignited the stadium with a sensational individual goal and remained a constant thorn in Fulham’s side. His creativity directly led to the second goal, making him a lock for a starting spot in the upcoming Champions League clash.
Florian Wirtz — 6
Despite the team’s overall fluidity, the high-priced German playmaker struggled to exert his usual influence. Several promising attacks stalled when the ball reached his feet, leading to a frustrating evening. He showed flashes of his technical quality but lacked the decisive final pass to truly unlock the defense.
Cody Gakpo — 6
Tasked with leading the line in a makeshift front three, the forward worked hard but lacked a clinical edge. He provided a crucial assist for the second goal with a smart layoff but failed to test the keeper himself. His performance was industrious, though he may find his starting spot under threat when other strikers return.
Mohamed Salah — 8
In one of his final appearances at Anfield, the Egyptian icon reminded everyone of his enduring class. He finished a well-worked move with a trademark strike to seal the result, ending a goal drought at home. His emotional connection with the crowd was evident as he led the line with veteran savvy.
Substitutes:
Ryan Gravenberch — 6
Entering at half-time for the injured Jones, the midfielder provided a physical presence and much-needed defensive screening. He kept his game simple, ensuring the back four remained protected as Fulham searched for a way back into the match during the closing stages.
Joe Gomez — 6
Brought on to solidify the defense, the versatile defender carried out his instructions with typical professionalism. He won his individual duels and ensured there were no late scares, helping the Reds see out the game in a controlled fashion.
Alexander Isak — 6
Continuing his return from a recent injury layoff, the striker focused on regaining match sharpness. While he didn’t have many sights of goal, his movement stretched the tired Fulham defenders and provided a focal point for the team’s late counter-attacks.
Alexis Mac Allister — 6
The World Cup winner faced some jeers from the crowd but remained composed during his cameo. He helped retain possession and saw a powerful long-range effort saved. His experience was vital in navigating the final minutes and securing the three points.
Trey Nyoni — N/A
The youngster was introduced very late in the proceedings, leaving him with insufficient time to make a tangible impact on the match or receive a formal rating.