Curtis Jones capitalised on an error from Andre Onana to fire Liverpool to a 1-0 win over Ajax at Anfield.
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Erik ten Hag brought Edson Alvarez into the midfield for the clash with Liverpool, while Antony and David Neres flanked Dusan Tadic on the wings.
The game was open from the start with both teams creating chances. Curtis Jones went close for the hosts early on with a strike that hit the post. At the other end, Davy Klaassen headed straight at Caoimhin Kelleher, who was making his debut in place of Alisson.
Sadio Mane caused the Ajax defence issues, but the Liverpool goalkeeper had to be at full strength to deny Noussair Mazraoui. Early in the second half Klaassen put a headed chance wide before Neres hit the post after Mazraoui’s strike was parried into his path.
Ajax were comfortable but on the hour mark, Liverpool took the lead. A cross to the back post was completely left by Onana which allowed Jones to tap the ball into the net at the back post.
It should have been 2-0 shortly afterwards but Onana denied Mo Salah after he latched onto a poor backpass. Salah also had another big chance when he raced in on goal but blasted wide.
Erik ten Hag brought on Zakaria Labyad, Klaas Jan Huntelaar, and Lassina Traore to try and find an equaliser. However, it would not be found as Huntelaar headed straight at Kelleher with their best chance late on.
Ajax lost and must now beat Atalanta Bergamo at home to reach the next round. The Italian side were held 1-1 at home by Midtjylland in the group’s other game. Liverpool progress to the last 16.
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