Liverpool's Most Maligned Characters Shine in 0-3 Marseille Victory

In a commanding 3-0 away victory over Olympique de Marseille in the UEFA Champions League on January 22, 2026, Liverpool's most criticized players stepped up, silencing doubters and propelling the Reds into fourth place in the standings.[1][2] This result extended Liverpool's unbeaten run across all competitions to 13 matches, significantly boosting their chances for automatic qualification to the last 16.[2]

The match showcased redemption arcs for Liverpool's most maligned characters. Dominik Szoboszlai, often under fire for inconsistent form, emerged as the star performer. He opened the scoring with a clinical finish after a lightning counter-attack, gambling across his defender to tuck the ball home early on.[2][3][5] Szoboszlai's influence continued, nearly adding more with dynamic carries and precise interplay.[2]

The second goal came via a clever free kick from Szoboszlai that curled under the wall on the stroke of halftime, exposing Marseille's defensive frailties.[2] Post-interval, another maligned figure—likely a fringe player like Ryan Gravenberch, criticized for lacking end product—drove forward with a powerful carry, overloading Marseille's backline before teeing up Cody Gakpo for the third. Gakpo's late strike sealed a classic counter, with Liverpool breaking swiftly from Marseille's committed but overrun forwards.[2]

Earlier reports mentioned good work leading to an own goal off the goalkeeper, but the rout was complete at 3-0.[2] Marseille struggled to regain possession, unable to track Liverpool's quick transitions. This performance vindicated manager Arne Slot's faith in his squad's depth, turning preseason jeers into Champions League cheers. With top-eight qualification now in sight, Liverpool's "misfits" proved pivotal.[3][5]

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