A number of interesting post-match statistics emerged from Liverpool’s 0-0 draw with Bayern Munich at Anfield in the Champions League on Tuesday.
Jurgen Klopp‘s men came up against a Bayern outfit hell-bent on not conceding, with their cagey approach a compliment to this Reds side.
Liverpool defended expertly themselves, too, with a makeshift centre-back pairing of Fabinho and Joel Matip performing admirably.
The result leaves the tie beautifully poised ahead of the second leg at the Allianz Arena on March 13, although Bayern will feel they have the advantage.
Here are five of the best statistics from Liverpool’s hard-earned draw.
No Van Dijk, No Problem
There were understandable concerns about Virgil van Dijk‘s absence through suspension, especially with Robert Lewandowski leading the line for Bayern.
Liverpool were resolute at the back throughout, however, with an eye-catching stat summing up how well they did against Niko Kovac’s side.
Bayern failed to register a single shot on target at Anfield – the first time that has happened in a Champions League knockout game since May 2015, according to WhoScored.
The Bundesliga giants have missed a trick not getting an away goal, particularly with Van Dijk absent.
Recent History Against Liverpool
There was much debate over whether or not a 0-0 draw with a good, average of bad result for the Reds, with all arguments carrying substance.
Recent evidence suggests that Liverpool are up against it, though.
Of the last 10 Champions League first leg ties to have finished goalless, seven of the home teams in the second leg have gone through.
Klopp’s men certainly don’t have a mountain to climb in Munich, but it will require a big effort to make it into the quarter-finals.
Captain Fantastic
Jordan Henderson enjoyed arguably his best performance of the campaign, leading by example with an outstanding display.
The captain’s post-match statistics highlighted his all-round influence, with an 81 percent passing accuracy, eight ball recoveries made and three aerial duels and tackles won apiece.
The 28-year-old also covered more ground than any other player on the pitch.
Fabinho is the first-choice occupant of the No.6 role moving forward, but Henderson outlined his continued importance on Tuesday night.
Keita Lively Again
The last two-and-a-half games have seen Naby Keita show signs of hitting his best form, starting with a strong second-half display at West Ham.
He was one of Liverpool’s standout individuals against Bayern, particularly in the first half, with a newfound confidence running through his veins.
Keita won all of his tackles on the night (3/3), and in an attacking sense he attempted three shots, completed as many dribbles and created one chance.
The Guinean still has another level to find, with some of his killer balls not quite on the money, but he is threatening to come alive at a crucial point in the season.
Neuer The Playmaker!
Manuel Neuer was a busy figure on Tuesday evening, but not because he was being forced into making endless saves.
The German legend was a constant outlet as Bayern looked to kill the game for large periods, often showing his confidence on the ball.
Remarkably, Neuer (70) had more touches at Anfield than six Liverpool outfield players – Sadio Mane (37), Roberto Firmino (43), Mohamed Salah (50), Gini Wijnaldum (56), Keita (61) and Andy Robertson (68).
It’s fair to say the Bundesliga champions stifled the Reds.
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