Alisson: Staying focussed was key in Monterrey win

[TLW]

Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson has discussed his joy over Liverpool’s hard fought 2-1 win over CONCACAF champions Monterrey in the semi final of the FIFA Club World Cup in Doha on Wednesday evening.

The Mexican side pushed the Reds all the way,  but once again the belief within the squad played a massive part with substitute Roberto Firmino scoring the winner in injury time.

With the victory, Liverpool became the first English team to reach the final twice and know they can look to right the wrongs from 2005.

The gloveman was playing with a much changed back four in front of him including captain Jordan Henderson who filled in for Virgil Van Dijk.

Despite being much busier than normal and winning high praise from his manager for his performance , the keeper says that it was the strong team mentality which saw them through.

The Official site reported Alisson as saying:

Just to be mentally strong and focus on every movement. 

“I think the guys know me long enough to know me, even Hendo being in a different position. 

“I tried to speak with him all the time to help him in the movements but I think everybody did well. 

“Of course there were many chances for them but they helped me in those chances to be close to the ball, to make sure the strikers don’t have time to shoot alone, and this makes a difference for the goalkeeper to make a save.”

 

Alisson says he is greatly looking forward to the final on Saturday evening against a team from his homeland, that being Flamengo.

“It will be a tough game for us as it was tonight against Monterrey. 

"They are different sides. Flamengo have a lot of quality, they have a good defence but I don’t know what to expect from the game. 

“I just know it will be a nice challenge for us, a good challenge and I think for who will be watching the game it will be a nice game with quality [of a] high level. 

“We are both champions of the most important tournaments, us with the Champions League and Flamengo won the Copa Libertadores. 

"I know how important this championship is for the Brazilian teams and South American teams, and I know it will be a hard game for us.”


 

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[Guest Pistonbroke]

He was immense when called upon again last night. You can tell he'll be up for the final as well, as will Bobby if picked. Pity Fabinho is injured as he'd have loved playing as well.