Liverpool maintained their perfect start to the Premier League season as they beat Tottenham 2-1 at Wembley on Saturday.
Georginio Wijnaldum and Roberto Firmino found the target for the Reds before Erik Lamela got one back for the hosts in stoppage-time.
Mane’s game in numbers
30-SECOND REPORT
Mane was a constant threat down the left inside channel, taking advantage of Kieran Trippier’s ventures forward and running at Toby Alderweireld. He looked sharp and hungry for goals, testing Michel Vorm with a couple of good efforts.
He created the opener with his run in behind before his ball across was deflected onto the post by Jan Vertonghen to allow Firmino a simple tap in.
GOT RIGHT
Movement – Mane was difficult to keep track of as he regularly exploited Tottenham’s high-line with his runs in behind. That’s how he helped break the deadlock as well. The Spurs defenders struggled to contain him and ended up committing six fouls against the forward.
Goal threat – The Senegal international had five shots at goal, more than anyone else on the pitch. Three of his efforts were on target as well.
GOT WRONG
Decision-making – Mane currently leads the Premier League goalscoring charts alongside Aleksandar Mitrovic with four goals and he did selfishly try to add to that when better options were available.
His decision-making was off the mark as well as he completely ignored an unmarked Mohamed Salah on one occasion and played in Naby Keita instead who had to take his shot quickly as he was being closed down.
Wasteful in possession – His passing in the final third was sloppy as well as he registered a success rate of just 66.7 per cent. Only Trent Alexander-Arnold was less accurate with his passing (64.1 per cent).
Sadio Mane
VERDICT
Was lively and one of Liverpool’s best performers on the day but with a little more composure, he could’ve made it a far more comfortable victory for the visitors.
RATING 7/10
