Robertson earns 5/10 by conceding penalty in Liverpool defeat at Napoli

European champions Liverpool were unable to get their Champions League campaign off to a bright start, as they fell in a 2-0 loss at Napoli on Tuesday. Dries Mertens scored from the penalty spot following a poor Andrew Robertson challenge, with Fernando Llorente sealing the three points in injury time following a Virgil van Dijk error.

Positives

There was always a clear and evident threat on the counterattack from Jurgen Klopp's men, as they remained patient and didn't get forced into any errors. They were able to wear Napoli down as the game went on, and their quick passing was a constant pain for the Italian side to deal with.

Negatives

The Reds showed Napoli far too much respect on the ball and seemed far too laid back when they were in possession. The hosts were often able to reset themselves pretty efficiently, and one of the key reasons for that was Liverpool's slow pace, which ensured they were living dangerously.

Manager rating out of 10

6 -- Klopp's realisation that his side needed more physicality in the middle of the park led to an interesting starting XI and certainly got them out of jail more than once. However, the manager struggled to make the necessary changes, and while Liverpool showed a clearer attacking incentive in the second half, Klopp's hesitation with his substitutions didn't help matters.

Player ratings (1-10; 10 = best. Players introduced after 70 minutes get no rating)

GK Adrian, 8 -- Made a vital double save from Fabian Ruiz in the seventh minute before producing one of the saves of the season in the 49th from a Mertens effort. Got a strong hand to the Belgian's penalty but couldn't keep it out.

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DF Trent Alexander-Arnold, 7 -- Maintained a strong balance of attacking pace and phenomenal timing with his defensive duties. Has a great instinctive touch and made a key interception in the 11th minute.

DF Joel Matip, 7 -- Made a key clearance in the 25th minute, and though he did drift forward on occasion, the Cameroon international remained solid at the back throughout the game.

DF Virgil van Dijk, 6 -- Made a rare yet crucial mistake for Napoli's second goal. Was in complete control at the back until injury time, which let him down after 90 minutes of solid play.

DF Andrew Robertson, 5 -- Lively down the wings but had a poor end product. Picked up a 57th-minute yellow card for a tame yet silly pull and gave away the penalty with a simple mistake.

MF Jordan Henderson, 6 -- The captain rarely put a foot wrong, but in equal measure, he didn't have much of an influence on the state of play. Substituted off in the 87th minute.

MF Fabinho, 7 -- Proved why he's considered to be one of the most consistent defensive midfielders in European football. Seemed to get drawn into Napoli's games at times but was one of Liverpool's brighter sparks.