Even though Liverpool lost, their world-class goalkeeper, Alisson Becker, once again displayed exceptional play in the Selhurst Park sunshine. This could have been a much more significant loss for the league leaders had it not been for the Brazilian’s genius, as Crystal Palace had a number of excellent opportunities that breached the Reds’ defense.
The home team got off to a strong start, driving Liverpool into blunders and making their back line and midfield look abnormally ragged. Alisson was called up almost instantly, and he made a fantastic stop to keep Jean-Philippe Mateta at bay. His afternoon was shaped by that. Liverpool’s number one somehow found himself in the way every time the French striker appeared likely to score, so he must have felt cursed.
Even after the opener was conceded from a set piece, Alisson remained the calming influence that kept his team alive. His positioning, reflexes, and decision-making were impeccable, often leaving Palace forwards shaking their heads in disbelief. It was a performance that underlined why he is consistently regarded as the best goalkeeper in world football.
In the second half, Liverpool pushed for the equaliser and briefly found themselves level through Federico Chiesa’s impact from the bench. Yet at the other end, Alisson was still required to intervene on several occasions. A stunning low stop from Mateta was followed by another sprawling save to deny a curling effort from distance. Each time the Reds’ outfield players faltered, the Brazilian stood tall.
Ultimately, there was nothing he could do about the stoppage-time winner. Palace capitalised on Liverpool’s fatigue and poor structure, and for once Alisson was powerless to prevent the decisive moment. Still, his display was the reason the game remained competitive for so long, and why the Reds were even in a position to try and salvage something late on.
It may be scant consolation on a disappointing afternoon, but Alisson’s heroics once again reminded supporters of his extraordinary value. In a side full of attacking stars and creative midfielders, it is the Brazilian goalkeeper who continues to deliver match-defining contributions even when his teammates cannot rise to the same level.