Alisson’s errors were not to be blamed, according to Jurgen Klopp, for Liverpool’s FA Cup tie with Wolves.
The Brazilian was responsible for Wolves’ first goal because he let Goncalo Guedes an easy finish with a direct ball and also let Hwang Hee-chan score a facile second.
Mohamed Salah and Darwin Nunez both scored to keep the holders from suffering a shocking third-round elimination, but their combined efforts fell short of averting a rematch at Molineux.
However, in his postgame remarks, Klopp did not place the blame for their issues on his goalie, instead complimenting the contributions Wolves made in an exciting game that lasted the entire time at Anfield.
“The goal should not happen, but we all know how often Ali saves our backsides,” he told ITV Sport. “They had counter-attacks before then [too].
“It is always dangerous when [Adama] Traore gets the ball, we could see that. We came back with a fantastic equaliser. They got a foot in the game, and they caused us massive problems.”
A draw at Anfield means this #EmiratesFACup tie goes to a replay.#LIVWOL pic.twitter.com/O3v2abJ0bU
— Liverpool FC (@LFC) January 7, 2023
When Toti Gomes’ goal was controversially disallowed by the linesman’s flag, Liverpool came the closest to losing when VAR was unable to provide enough angles to determine if Gomes was onside.
Julen Lopetegui was incensed by the choice, and Klopp agreed that it was not a good position for either team.
“I’m not sure about their third goal,” he added. “We have one picture where it may look offside.
“I can understand why they are angry about it. We don’t want the VAR to just have one angle.”
Cody Gakpo enjoyed a solid debut following his arrival from PSV, and Klopp was warm in his praise for the Dutchman.
“He fitted into the game,” he added. “It was not easy for a first step. We cannot expect it to be perfect.
“He showed good signs. We have to get him in better positions, but that will come, no doubt.”