Alisson Becker was frustrated that red smoke clouded his view during the first half of Liverpool’s FA Cup semifinal clash with Manchester City.
The lowdown
Liverpool scored two goals in the first 17 minutes against Pep Guardiola’s side, with Ibrahima Konate netting a header from a corner before Sadio Mane charged down goalkeeper Zak Steffen and bundled the ball home.
The Reds were attacking the City end during the first half, with their own supporters watching from the opposite end of Wembley.
Fans threw red ‘pyro’ towards the pitch in celebration, and it left Liverpool’s starting ‘keeper Alisson ‘completely wreathed in red smoke‘, potentially causing a distraction and restricting his visibility.
The latest
The Liverpool Echo’s chief LFC writer, Ian Doyle, said Alisson wouldn’t be ‘too impressed’ with the obstruction caused by the flare.
And The New York Times’ Chief Soccer Correspondent, Rory Smith, made a similar observation, noting that the 29-year-old ‘doesn’t look desperately happy‘ about the situation.
The verdict
Alisson actually endured a tricky first half, even as Liverpool stormed into a three-goal lead.
He misplaced eight passes during the first 45 minutes, including six of the 10 long balls he attempted (via SofaScore).
Liverpool writer Paul Tomkins insisted that, while the £150,000-per-week Brazilian was an ‘incredible goalkeeper’, his kicking had not been ‘as consistent lately’.
It’s hard to say whether the smoke was a significant factor, but it certainly can’t have been an assistance.
In other news, Liverpool are keen on this Real Madrid ace with PL experience.
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