Liverpool defeated Bordeaux, 2-1, in their Europa League Group B encounter at Anfield on Thursday, which helped Jurgen Klopp and his men qualify for the round of 32 as well. Christian Benteke and James Milner were the two goal scorers for Liverpool.
The home side showed character as they had to come from one goal down after Bordeaux's Henri Saivet scored in the 33rd minute. Goalkeeper Simon Mignolet was penalised for holding the ball inside his box for more than six seconds -- a foul, rarely given by officials -- , which cost Liverpool the goal via free kick.
After conceding the goal, Liverpool, who had dominated the game right from the start, came up with an instant reply as Beneteke was fouled inside Bordeaux's box, which led to a penalty. Milner converted the penalty in the 38th minute without any fuss.
The half could not have finished any better for Liverpool as Benteke, who had been one of the best players in the first 45 minutes, scored a thumping goal in first half extra time (45+1).
Though the first half was dominated by Liverpool to a large extent, Bordeaux came up with a spirited display in the second half as they were searching for the all important equaliser. The French outfit did come close, but were not able to get past Mignolet in the second half.
Such strategy of the visitors provided Liverpool a chance to increase their lead, but even the Reds could not score their third goal to put the game to rest.
However, Liverpool were happy with the game finishing 2-1 in their favour, which also marked their second victory in the competition. Klopp must be pleased with Benteke's performance at the home turf and might consider starting the Belgian once again in their upcoming EPL fixture against Swansea on Sunday.
With victory and qualification ensured for the next round of Europa League, Klopp might want to give some of his senior players much deserved rest when they travel to face FC Sion in Switzerland for the last round robin match on 10 December.
