Liverpool welcomed Napoli to Anfield last night knowing that a 1-0 win would seal their place in the knockout phase of the Champions League, and that’s exactly what they did.
Carlo Ancelotti is one of the most highly decorated managers in the history of European football, but Jurgen Klopp once again proved he has what it takes to thrive on the biggest stage of all by masterminding a narrow win over Napoli.
It was another historic evening of European football to remember at Anfield, and it was one which will be remembered for Alisson’s late heroics to deny Arkadiusz Milik.
But while Alisson will sweep the plaudits the performance of Joel Matip will largely go under the radar.
However, there were plenty of supporters on Twitter who were eager to highlight the brilliance of the Cameroon international, with another assured performance alongside Virgil Van Dijk really catching the eye.
Matip has been heavily scrutinised in the past for his languid approach, particularly since the emergence of Joe Gomez but, judging by the reaction on Twitter, it’s fair to say he shifted popular opinion against Napoli.
Incredibly solid, commanding in the air and assured in possession, Matip staked a strong claim for a regular spot in Liverpool’s back-four when it mattered most.
Here’s what the Liverpool fans had to say about Matip’s performance last night…
And very quietly Joel Matip has his best game in a Liverpool shirt @LFC #YNWA
— Paul Maidment (@paulmaidment) December 11, 2018
MoTM for me is Joel Matip. Many even thought his career @ LFC was over. He was immense tonight. I am happy for him!
— KLOPP4THEKOP (@kloppANDthekop) December 11, 2018
Anyone wanna talk about Joel Matip and how flawless he was tonight?
— John McMahon (@JohnMcMah0n) December 11, 2018
yeah for a lad lacking game time he really showed up when it counted
— Raymond Murphy (@raylfc1982) December 11, 2018
Unsung hero has to be Joel Matip. Has been brilliant in the last 2 games and should definitely keep his place until Joe Gomez comes back from injury.
— – (@AnfieldRd96) December 11, 2018
https://twitter.com/prashantjoon4/status/1072619625731551238
https://twitter.com/iSaraSQ/status/1072619344989970433
Great result and what a performance. And full credit to Joel Matip. The lad has stepped up when it matters. Brilliant!
— MrBatteRedLFC (@satishrajmohan) December 11, 2018
And what a time for Joel Matip to peak!
— mayank nikunj (@LFC_2007) December 11, 2018
Joel Matip is a very very good defender. Best passer in the squad too
— Ali Becker (@beardofbecker) December 11, 2018
