Real Madrid Vs Liverpool 2018: Player Ratings
The 2018 Champions League final between Real Madrid and Liverpool was a match filled with drama, controversy, and unforgettable moments. Real Madrid emerged victorious, securing their 13th Champions League title with a 3-1 win. This victory was fueled by individual brilliance and tactical decisions that ultimately proved decisive. Let's dive deep into the player ratings for both teams, analyzing the performance of each player and their contribution to this epic encounter. This analysis will provide insight into the key moments that defined the match and how each player fared under immense pressure. The player ratings reflect not just the goals and assists, but also the defensive contributions, passing accuracy, and overall impact on the game's flow. From goalkeepers to forwards, every position played a crucial role in shaping the outcome of the final. It's essential to remember that these ratings are subjective and based on the perceived impact and effectiveness of each player during the match. Some players may have had flashes of brilliance but lacked consistency, while others provided a steady presence that helped maintain the team's structure. Ultimately, the collective performance of Real Madrid proved superior, leading them to lift the coveted Champions League trophy once again. Evaluating player ratings allows fans to dissect the game in detail, appreciating the nuances of each performance and understanding how individual contributions coalesced into a team victory. Let's get started!
Real Madrid Player Ratings
Keylor Navas: 7/10
Keylor Navas had a relatively quiet night, mostly due to Liverpool's struggles in creating clear-cut chances after Mohamed Salah's injury. While he wasn't heavily tested, he made a couple of important saves and commanded his area well. His distribution was generally accurate, and he showed composure under pressure. Navas's experience in big games was evident, as he remained calm and focused throughout the match. His performance was solid, even though he didn't have to make any spectacular saves. The player ratings for Navas reflect his reliability and ability to manage the game from the back. He wasn't the standout performer, but he provided a stable presence in goal, which was crucial for Real Madrid's victory. Navas's contribution to Real Madrid's Champions League success cannot be understated. He consistently delivered in crucial moments, earning the trust and respect of his teammates and fans alike. While his time at Real Madrid had its ups and downs, his performance in the 2018 final was a testament to his resilience and determination. Overall, Navas played a vital role in Real Madrid's triumph, and his contribution should not be overlooked. His ability to stay composed and make crucial saves when needed solidified his reputation as a top-class goalkeeper. This performance added another chapter to his impressive legacy with Real Madrid. His anticipation and reflexes were sharp, ensuring that Liverpool struggled to find the back of the net. Navas's performance in the final was a key factor in Real Madrid's success.
Dani Carvajal: 6/10 (Substituted)
Dani Carvajal's night was cut short due to an injury in the first half. Before his substitution, he was solid defensively, containing Sadio Mané effectively. He also made a few overlapping runs but didn't have a significant impact in the attacking third. Carvajal's injury was a blow to Real Madrid, as he is a reliable and experienced defender. The player ratings reflect his performance in the limited time he was on the pitch. While he wasn't able to showcase his full range of abilities, he provided stability and defensive cover on the right flank. His absence was noticeable after his substitution, highlighting his importance to the team. Carvajal's contribution to Real Madrid's success over the years has been immense, and his injury was a setback for both him and the team. Despite his limited playing time, his initial defensive work was commendable. He managed to keep Mané at bay and contributed to Real Madrid's defensive structure. His commitment and work ethic are always evident, making him a valuable asset to the team. The player ratings for Carvajal are a reflection of his solid but brief performance. He will be remembered for his contributions to Real Madrid's overall success in the Champions League. His ability to defend and support the attack makes him a crucial player for the team. Carvajal's injury was a turning point in the game, forcing Real Madrid to adjust their defensive setup.
Raphael Varane: 7/10
Raphael Varane had a strong performance at the heart of Real Madrid's defense. He was dominant in the air, made several crucial interceptions, and kept Roberto Firmino relatively quiet. His partnership with Sergio Ramos was instrumental in neutralizing Liverpool's attacking threats. Varane's composure and reading of the game were excellent, and he rarely put a foot wrong. The player ratings reflect his solid defensive display and his ability to organize the backline. He was a key figure in Real Madrid's defensive efforts, ensuring that Liverpool struggled to create clear-cut opportunities. Varane's contribution to Real Madrid's Champions League victory was significant, showcasing his world-class defensive abilities. His presence in the defense provided a sense of security and stability, allowing the team to focus on their attacking play. Varane's performance in the final solidified his reputation as one of the best central defenders in the world. His ability to anticipate danger and make timely interceptions made him a formidable opponent for Liverpool's attackers. The player ratings for Varane are a testament to his outstanding defensive display and his overall contribution to Real Madrid's success. He played a pivotal role in keeping Liverpool's attack at bay and securing the victory for his team. His aerial prowess and tactical awareness were crucial in neutralizing Liverpool's offensive threats. Varane's partnership with Ramos formed an impenetrable barrier, frustrating Liverpool's attempts to break through.
Sergio Ramos: 6/10
Sergio Ramos, as always, was a central figure in the match, though his performance was marred by the controversial challenge on Mohamed Salah, which led to the Liverpool star's injury. While he was solid defensively, his actions sparked debate and controversy. Aside from the incident, he made several important tackles and interceptions, showcasing his defensive prowess. The player ratings are a reflection of his overall performance, taking into account both his defensive contributions and the controversial incident. His leadership and experience were evident, but the challenge on Salah overshadowed his positive contributions. Ramos's performance in the final will be remembered for both his defensive actions and the controversial incident. His impact on the game was significant, but the challenge on Salah remains a talking point. Ramos's leadership and defensive skills are undeniable, but his actions in the final raised questions about his sportsmanship. Despite the controversy, his contributions to Real Madrid's victory cannot be ignored. His ability to organize the defense and make crucial tackles helped keep Liverpool's attack at bay. The player ratings for Ramos reflect his complex performance, which was marked by both positive and negative moments. His defensive contributions were valuable, but the incident with Salah cast a shadow over his overall performance. Ramos's performance in the final was a mixed bag, with moments of brilliance overshadowed by controversy. His legacy as a player will always be intertwined with this particular incident.
Marcelo: 7/10
Marcelo was a constant threat down the left flank, providing width and creativity in attack. He made several overlapping runs, delivered dangerous crosses, and linked up well with Cristiano Ronaldo. Defensively, he had some lapses, but his attacking contributions more than made up for it. The player ratings reflect his dynamic performance and his ability to impact the game in both attack and defense. His energy and enthusiasm were infectious, and he played a key role in Real Madrid's attacking play. Marcelo's performance in the final showcased his attacking prowess and his ability to create opportunities for his teammates. His overlapping runs and crosses caused problems for Liverpool's defense, and he was a constant threat throughout the match. Marcelo's contribution to Real Madrid's Champions League victory was significant, highlighting his importance to the team. His ability to attack and defend makes him a valuable asset, and his performance in the final was a testament to his skill and determination. The player ratings for Marcelo reflect his dynamic performance and his overall contribution to Real Madrid's success. He provided width and creativity in attack, while also contributing defensively when needed. His energy and enthusiasm were evident, and he played a crucial role in Real Madrid's victory. Marcelo's attacking flair and defensive commitment were key to Real Madrid's success. His ability to contribute in both phases of the game made him a standout performer. He consistently created opportunities and disrupted Liverpool's defensive structure.
Casemiro: 7/10
Casemiro provided a solid shield in front of the defense, breaking up play and winning tackles. He was instrumental in disrupting Liverpool's midfield and preventing them from building momentum. While he didn't offer much in attack, his defensive contributions were crucial. The player ratings reflect his solid defensive display and his ability to protect the backline. His presence in midfield provided stability and allowed Real Madrid's attacking players to express themselves. Casemiro's performance in the final showcased his defensive prowess and his ability to control the midfield. His tackling and interceptions were crucial in disrupting Liverpool's attacking play, and he provided a solid foundation for Real Madrid's attacks. Casemiro's contribution to Real Madrid's Champions League victory was significant, highlighting his importance to the team. His defensive work often goes unnoticed, but his impact on the game is undeniable. The player ratings for Casemiro reflect his solid defensive display and his overall contribution to Real Madrid's success. He provided a shield in front of the defense, breaking up play and winning tackles. His presence in midfield allowed Real Madrid's attacking players to thrive. Casemiro's defensive work was crucial in stifling Liverpool's midfield. His ability to break up play and win tackles disrupted Liverpool's rhythm and prevented them from building attacks. He consistently provided a protective barrier for Real Madrid's defense.
Toni Kroos: 7/10
Toni Kroos controlled the tempo of the game with his precise passing and intelligent movement. He dictated the flow of play, creating opportunities for his teammates and maintaining possession. While he didn't have a direct impact on the score sheet, his influence on the game was undeniable. The player ratings reflect his excellent passing range, vision, and ability to control the midfield. His presence and influence were crucial in guiding Real Madrid to victory. Kroos's performance in the final showcased his exceptional passing ability and his ability to dictate the tempo of the game. His precise passes and intelligent movement created opportunities for his teammates and kept Liverpool on the back foot. Kroos's contribution to Real Madrid's Champions League victory was significant, highlighting his importance to the team. His ability to control the midfield and dictate the flow of play is crucial to Real Madrid's success. The player ratings for Kroos reflect his excellent passing range, vision, and ability to control the midfield. He dictated the flow of play, creating opportunities for his teammates and maintaining possession. Kroos's composure and passing accuracy were instrumental in controlling the game. His ability to find teammates with pinpoint passes kept Liverpool chasing the ball and allowed Real Madrid to dictate the tempo.
Luka Modrić: 8/10
Luka Modrić was arguably the man of the match, putting in a tireless performance in midfield. He was instrumental in linking defense and attack, creating numerous chances, and winning back possession. His energy, creativity, and work rate were exceptional. The player ratings reflect his outstanding performance and his ability to influence the game in all areas. His contribution to Real Madrid's victory was immense, showcasing his world-class abilities. Modrić's performance in the final was a masterclass in midfield play. His energy, creativity, and work rate were exceptional, and he was instrumental in creating opportunities for his teammates. Modrić's contribution to Real Madrid's Champions League victory was significant, highlighting his importance to the team. His ability to link defense and attack and create numerous chances makes him a valuable asset. The player ratings for Modrić reflect his outstanding performance and his overall contribution to Real Madrid's success. He linked defense and attack, created numerous chances, and won back possession. Modrić's tireless performance and creative spark were key to Real Madrid's triumph. His ability to control the midfield and create opportunities made him a standout player.
Isco: 6/10 (Substituted)
Isco started the game but didn't have a significant impact. He showed glimpses of his skill and creativity, but he was largely overshadowed by Liverpool's pressing and Real Madrid's overall tactical approach. He was substituted in the second half. The player ratings reflect his limited impact on the game and his inability to assert his influence. While he showed flashes of brilliance, he didn't make a significant contribution to Real Madrid's attacking play. Isco's performance in the final was underwhelming, as he struggled to make an impact on the game. His skill and creativity were evident, but he was unable to influence the match in a meaningful way. Isco's contribution to Real Madrid's Champions League victory was limited, as he was substituted in the second half. His inability to assert his influence on the game was a disappointment. The player ratings for Isco reflect his limited impact and his inability to make a significant contribution. While he showed glimpses of his skill and creativity, he was largely overshadowed by Liverpool's pressing and Real Madrid's overall tactical approach. Isco struggled to find space and time on the ball. His impact was minimal, and he failed to create significant opportunities for his teammates.
Karim Benzema: 8/10
Karim Benzema scored the opening goal with a bizarre but opportunistic finish. He worked tirelessly upfront, pressing the Liverpool defense and creating space for his teammates. His movement and link-up play were excellent. The player ratings reflect his goal-scoring contribution, his work rate, and his overall impact on the game. His performance was crucial in leading Real Madrid to victory. Benzema's performance in the final showcased his goal-scoring ability and his tireless work rate. His opportunistic goal set the tone for Real Madrid, and he continued to press the Liverpool defense throughout the match. Benzema's contribution to Real Madrid's Champions League victory was significant, highlighting his importance to the team. His goal-scoring ability and his tireless work rate make him a valuable asset. The player ratings for Benzema reflect his goal-scoring contribution, his work rate, and his overall impact on the game. He scored the opening goal and worked tirelessly upfront, pressing the Liverpool defense and creating space for his teammates. Benzema's goal was a turning point in the game, and his overall performance was crucial to Real Madrid's success. His ability to find the back of the net and his tireless work ethic made him a standout performer.
Cristiano Ronaldo: 6/10
Cristiano Ronaldo had a quiet game by his standards. He didn't score or assist, and he was largely contained by Liverpool's defense. While he showed glimpses of his brilliance, he didn't have a significant impact on the score sheet. The player ratings reflect his relatively quiet performance and his inability to influence the game in a decisive way. Despite his best efforts, he was unable to make a significant contribution to Real Madrid's attacking play. Ronaldo's performance in the final was underwhelming, as he struggled to make an impact on the game. His skill and determination were evident, but he was unable to find the back of the net or create significant opportunities for his teammates. Ronaldo's contribution to Real Madrid's Champions League victory was limited, as he was largely contained by Liverpool's defense. His inability to score or assist was a disappointment. The player ratings for Ronaldo reflect his relatively quiet performance and his inability to influence the game in a decisive way. While he showed glimpses of his brilliance, he didn't have a significant impact on the score sheet. Ronaldo struggled to find space and time on the ball. His impact was minimal, and he failed to create significant opportunities for his teammates. Ronaldo's quiet performance was unusual, but Real Madrid still managed to secure the victory.
Substitutes:
- Nacho (for Carvajal): 7/10 - Solid defensively, providing cover on the right flank.
- Gareth Bale (for Isco): 9/10 - Scored two goals, including a stunning overhead kick, changing the game.
- Marco Asensio (for Benzema): 6/10 - Provided fresh legs in attack.
Liverpool Player Ratings
Loris Karius: 2/10
Loris Karius had a nightmare performance, making two crucial errors that led directly to Real Madrid goals. His confidence appeared shattered after the first mistake, and he never recovered. His performance was a major factor in Liverpool's defeat. The player ratings reflect his disastrous performance and his significant contribution to Real Madrid's victory. His errors were costly and ultimately decided the outcome of the game. Karius's performance in the final will be remembered for his costly errors, which proved to be decisive. His confidence appeared shattered, and he was unable to recover from his mistakes. Karius's contribution to Liverpool's defeat was significant, as his errors led directly to Real Madrid goals. His performance was a major disappointment for Liverpool fans. The player ratings for Karius reflect his disastrous performance and his significant contribution to Real Madrid's victory. His errors were costly and ultimately decided the outcome of the game. Karius's mistakes will be remembered as a key factor in Liverpool's defeat. His confidence was visibly shaken, and he was unable to recover from his errors.
Trent Alexander-Arnold: 6/10
Trent Alexander-Arnold had a mixed performance. He showed glimpses of his attacking ability but struggled defensively against Cristiano Ronaldo and Marcelo. He was also caught out of position on a few occasions. The player ratings reflect his attacking contributions and his defensive vulnerabilities. His performance was a mixed bag, with moments of brilliance overshadowed by defensive lapses. Alexander-Arnold's performance in the final showcased his attacking potential but also exposed his defensive weaknesses. He struggled to contain Ronaldo and Marcelo, and he was caught out of position on several occasions. Alexander-Arnold's contribution to Liverpool's performance was limited by his defensive vulnerabilities. His attacking contributions were promising, but his defensive lapses were costly. The player ratings for Alexander-Arnold reflect his mixed performance and his attacking potential and defensive vulnerabilities. He showed glimpses of his attacking ability but struggled defensively against Ronaldo and Marcelo. Alexander-Arnold's defensive frailties were exposed, but his attacking potential remains promising. He needs to improve his defensive awareness and positioning to become a more complete player.
Virgil van Dijk: 7/10
Virgil van Dijk was solid defensively, making several important tackles and interceptions. He organized the defense well and kept Karim Benzema relatively quiet. However, he couldn't prevent the goals, and his impact was limited by Liverpool's overall struggles. The player ratings reflect his solid defensive display and his inability to prevent the goals. His performance was commendable, but he couldn't single-handedly prevent Real Madrid from scoring. Van Dijk's performance in the final showcased his defensive abilities and his leadership qualities. He organized the defense well and made several important tackles and interceptions. Van Dijk's contribution to Liverpool's performance was significant, as he provided a solid presence in the defense. However, he couldn't prevent Real Madrid from scoring, and his impact was limited by Liverpool's overall struggles. The player ratings for Van Dijk reflect his solid defensive display and his inability to prevent the goals. He organized the defense well and kept Benzema relatively quiet. Van Dijk's defensive prowess was evident, but he couldn't single-handedly prevent Real Madrid from scoring. He consistently made crucial tackles and interceptions, but Liverpool's overall defensive frailties were exposed.
Dejan Lovren: 6/10
Dejan Lovren had a decent game, but he was partly at fault for Benzema's goal. He made some good tackles and interceptions but also showed lapses in concentration. Overall, a mixed performance. The player ratings reflect his decent performance and his role in Benzema's goal. His performance was a mixed bag, with moments of solid defending overshadowed by costly errors. Lovren's performance in the final showcased his defensive abilities but also exposed his inconsistencies. He made some good tackles and interceptions, but he was partly at fault for Benzema's goal. Lovren's contribution to Liverpool's performance was limited by his inconsistencies and his role in Benzema's goal. His defensive abilities were evident, but his lapses in concentration proved costly. The player ratings for Lovren reflect his decent performance and his role in Benzema's goal. He made some good tackles and interceptions but also showed lapses in concentration. Lovren's inconsistencies were exposed, and his role in Benzema's goal was a costly error.
Andrew Robertson: 7/10
Andrew Robertson was energetic and committed, providing width and delivering dangerous crosses. He defended well against Gareth Bale after he came on but couldn't prevent Real Madrid's attacking threats. The player ratings reflect his energetic performance and his defensive contributions. His performance was commendable, but he couldn't prevent Real Madrid from scoring. Robertson's performance in the final showcased his energy, commitment, and defensive abilities. He provided width and delivered dangerous crosses, and he defended well against Bale after he came on. Robertson's contribution to Liverpool's performance was significant, as he provided energy and commitment on the left flank. However, he couldn't prevent Real Madrid from scoring, and his impact was limited by Liverpool's overall struggles. The player ratings for Robertson reflect his energetic performance and his defensive contributions. He provided width and delivered dangerous crosses, and he defended well against Bale after he came on. Robertson's energy and commitment were evident, but he couldn't prevent Real Madrid from scoring.
Jordan Henderson: 6/10
Jordan Henderson worked hard in midfield but struggled to control the game or create opportunities. He was often bypassed by Real Madrid's midfield dominance. The player ratings reflect his hard work but his limited impact on the game. His performance was commendable, but he couldn't control the midfield or create opportunities. Henderson's performance in the final showcased his work ethic and determination, but he struggled to make a significant impact on the game. He worked hard in midfield but was often bypassed by Real Madrid's midfield dominance. Henderson's contribution to Liverpool's performance was limited by Real Madrid's midfield dominance. His work ethic and determination were evident, but he couldn't control the midfield or create opportunities. The player ratings for Henderson reflect his hard work but his limited impact on the game. He worked hard in midfield but struggled to control the game or create opportunities. Henderson's work ethic was commendable, but he couldn't match Real Madrid's midfield dominance.
James Milner: 5/10 (Substituted)
James Milner started the game but was largely ineffective. He struggled to impose himself on the midfield and was substituted in the second half. The player ratings reflect his ineffectiveness and his limited impact on the game. His performance was disappointing, as he failed to make a significant contribution. Milner's performance in the final was underwhelming, as he struggled to impose himself on the midfield. He was substituted in the second half after failing to make a significant impact. Milner's contribution to Liverpool's performance was limited by his ineffectiveness and his inability to control the midfield. His performance was a disappointment for Liverpool fans. The player ratings for Milner reflect his ineffectiveness and his limited impact on the game. He struggled to impose himself on the midfield and was substituted in the second half. Milner's performance was underwhelming, and he failed to make a significant contribution to Liverpool's efforts.
Georginio Wijnaldum: 6/10
Georginio Wijnaldum worked hard but didn't have a significant impact on the game. He struggled to create opportunities and was often outmaneuvered by Real Madrid's midfield. The player ratings reflect his hard work but his limited impact on the game. His performance was commendable, but he couldn't create opportunities or outmaneuver Real Madrid's midfield. Wijnaldum's performance in the final showcased his work ethic but also exposed his limitations against Real Madrid's midfield dominance. He worked hard but struggled to create opportunities and was often outmaneuvered. Wijnaldum's contribution to Liverpool's performance was limited by Real Madrid's midfield dominance. His work ethic was commendable, but he couldn't create opportunities or outmaneuver Real Madrid's midfield. The player ratings for Wijnaldum reflect his hard work but his limited impact on the game. He struggled to create opportunities and was often outmaneuvered by Real Madrid's midfield.
Mohamed Salah: 6/10 (Substituted)
Mohamed Salah's night was tragically cut short due to an injury sustained in a challenge with Sergio Ramos. Before his injury, he looked dangerous and threatened the Real Madrid defense. His absence was a significant blow to Liverpool. The player ratings reflect his early promise and the impact of his injury. His performance was promising, but his early exit was a significant setback for Liverpool. Salah's performance in the final was tragically cut short by an injury sustained in a challenge with Ramos. Before his injury, he looked dangerous and threatened the Real Madrid defense. Salah's contribution to Liverpool's performance was limited by his early exit due to injury. His absence was a significant blow to Liverpool's attacking threat. The player ratings for Salah reflect his early promise and the impact of his injury. He looked dangerous and threatened the Real Madrid defense before his injury forced him off the pitch. Salah's injury was a turning point in the game, significantly diminishing Liverpool's attacking capabilities.
Roberto Firmino: 5/10
Roberto Firmino struggled to make an impact on the game. He was well-marshaled by Real Madrid's defense and didn't create many opportunities. The player ratings reflect his ineffectiveness and his limited impact on the game. His performance was disappointing, as he failed to create opportunities or trouble Real Madrid's defense. Firmino's performance in the final was underwhelming, as he struggled to make an impact on the game. He was well-marshaled by Real Madrid's defense and didn't create many opportunities for his teammates. Firmino's contribution to Liverpool's performance was limited by Real Madrid's defensive organization. His performance was a disappointment for Liverpool fans. The player ratings for Firmino reflect his ineffectiveness and his limited impact on the game. He struggled to make an impact and was well-marshaled by Real Madrid's defense. Firmino's performance was underwhelming, and he failed to create opportunities or trouble Real Madrid's defense.
Sadio Mané: 8/10
Sadio Mané was Liverpool's best player, scoring their only goal and constantly threatening the Real Madrid defense. He was lively and energetic throughout the game. The player ratings reflect his excellent performance and his significant contribution to Liverpool's attack. His performance was commendable, as he was Liverpool's most dangerous player. Mané's performance in the final showcased his attacking abilities and his determination to make a difference. He scored Liverpool's only goal and constantly threatened the Real Madrid defense. Mané's contribution to Liverpool's performance was significant, as he was their most dangerous player. His performance was a bright spot in an otherwise disappointing night for Liverpool. The player ratings for Mané reflect his excellent performance and his significant contribution to Liverpool's attack. He scored their only goal and constantly threatened the Real Madrid defense. Mané's performance was a standout effort, and he was Liverpool's most dangerous player throughout the match.
Substitutes:
- Adam Lallana (for Salah): 5/10 - Offered little after coming on.
- Emre Can (for Milner): 6/10 - Added some energy to midfield.
- Dominic Solanke (for Firmino): 5/10 - Had no real impact.
Conclusion
The 2018 Champions League final was a game of contrasting fortunes. Real Madrid capitalized on Liverpool's errors and showcased their experience and quality, securing their 13th title. Liverpool, on the other hand, were undone by individual mistakes and the unfortunate injury to Mohamed Salah. The player ratings reflect the individual performances and their impact on the game's outcome. Real Madrid's key players stepped up when it mattered most, while Liverpool's key players struggled to make a significant impact. The match will be remembered for Gareth Bale's stunning overhead kick, Loris Karius's costly errors, and the controversial challenge on Mohamed Salah. Ultimately, Real Madrid's experience and quality shone through, leading them to victory. The player ratings offer a detailed analysis of each player's performance, providing insights into the key moments and decisions that shaped the outcome of the final. The game was a thrilling encounter, filled with drama, controversy, and unforgettable moments. Real Madrid's victory cemented their status as one of the greatest teams in Champions League history, while Liverpool were left to rue their missed opportunities and individual errors. The player ratings provide a comprehensive overview of the individual performances and their contribution to this epic final. The final score of 3-1 in favor of Real Madrid does not fully capture the intensity and drama of the match. Both teams fought hard, but Real Madrid's experience and clinical finishing ultimately proved decisive.
