Liverpool midfielder Harvey Elliott has lavished praise on teammate Alisson Becker, declaring that no goalkeeper in the world could replicate the Brazilian’s heroics during the Reds’ stunning 1-0 victory over Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League last-16 first leg last week. Elliott, who came off the bench to score the decisive goal in the 87th minute, credited Alisson’s extraordinary performance for keeping Liverpool in the game, setting the stage for the late drama at Parc des Princes.
The match, which took place on March 5, saw PSG dominate proceedings with 27 shots, 10 of which were on target. Despite the relentless pressure from the Ligue 1 giants, Alisson stood tall, making nine crucial saves to deny stars like Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, Bradley Barcola, and Ousmane Dembele. His standout performance was capped by a pinpoint long ball in the dying minutes, which found substitute Darwin Nunez, who in turn set up Elliott for the match-winner.
Speaking to reporters ahead of the second leg at Anfield on March 11, Elliott was unequivocal in his admiration for the Liverpool goalkeeper. “I don’t think there’s a keeper out there who could do what Alisson did against PSG,” he said. “Jo keeper can match that – he was unbelievable. He kept us in it with save after save, and then he even starts the move for the goal with that long ball. You want to die for him because he puts his heart on the line for us every time.”
Elliott’s comments echo the sentiments of fans and pundits alike, who have hailed Alisson’s display as one of the finest goalkeeping performances in recent Champions League history. The 32-year-old Brazilian, widely regarded as one of the world’s best, described the game as “probably the best performance of my life so far,” a statement that underscores the magnitude of his contribution against a PSG side brimming with attacking talent.
The turning point came late in the match when Liverpool manager Arne Slot introduced Elliott and Nunez from the bench. With PSG beginning to tire under Liverpool’s dogged resistance, Alisson’s long pass exploited the space, allowing Nunez to outmuscle his marker and tee up Elliott, who finished coolly just 47 seconds after entering the fray. The goal silenced the Parc des Princes and handed Liverpool a slender but precious lead to defend in the return leg.
“Full credit to the team,” Elliott added. “You could see PSG were getting tired towards the end, and that’s down to how hard we worked. But Alisson – he’s the best in the world. There’s no one else like him.”
Liverpool’s victory has been dubbed a “smash-and-grab” by some, with PSG’s dominance in possession and chances suggesting the scoreline flattered the visitors. However, Alisson’s brilliance and Elliott’s clinical finish turned the tide, giving the Reds a foothold in the tie as they prepare to host PSG on Tuesday night.
As anticipation builds for the second leg, Elliott’s words serve as a rallying cry for Liverpool fans and a testament to the pivotal role Alisson continues to play in the team’s pursuit of European glory. With the tie far from over, all eyes will be on Anfield to see if the Reds can capitalize on their advantage – and if Alisson can once again prove himself the difference-maker Elliott believes him to be.