Liverpool

Neil Atkinson's post-match review for The Anfield Wrap after Liverpool 0 (2) Inter Milan 1 (1) in the Champions League last 16 at Anfield...

But Liverpool need to watch the tapes and keep up their commitment to learning and growing. They hugged and congratulated the Liverpool players warmly. They are a side who should leave Anfield pleased with the win. They are a side who should retain the Italian Championship. Both Jota and Alcantara will come on for the game and Liverpool progress. Inter Milan are a very good side who put absolutely everything on the line. These Liverpool players love to learn. You can hit the post and bar. He works some aspects of the game out as he goes, but still has to feel his way at times. He isn’t the finished product but as I stand on the train outside Bootle I ask you this — which of us truly is? He didn’t so much manage the game as wrap it up and lash it in a woodchipper. He seemed to redefine the rules as he went.

The Reds did just enough to secure a spot among the final eight teams in the competition.

But Martinez changed the complexion of the game with his long-range effort, which came off a Liverpool turnover that was quickly moved into the attacking third by Ivan Perisic and Sanchez. A well-placed pass by Sanchez allowed Martinez to take a step towards goal before launching a precise strike past a diving Alisson Becker and into the top-right corner of the Liverpool net. The first hour saw Liverpool comfortably control the play, as they held a majority of the possession and struck the woodwork once in each half to keep the visitors on the back foot. A stunning goal by Lautaro Martinez in the 61st minute was followed closely by an ejection for Alexis Sanchez as Inter rode a wave of emotion during Tuesday's match.