Liverpool continued their superb start to the new Champions League campaign with a battling 1-0 win over RB Leipzig.
Darwin Nunez scored the only goal of the game as Liverpool edged out the German club at the Red Bull Arena.
Steve McManaman praised Nunez after his match-winning display, with the player having endured a tricky start to life under Arne Slot.
Nunez has often been forced to watch on as regular minutes have been handed to the likes of Diogo Jota, Luis Diaz and Mohamed Salah.
But amid the injury to Jota, the Uruguayan was handed a start against RB Leipzig, and he didn’t disappoint.
Nedum Onuoha delighted for Liverpool attacker Darwin Nunez
Salah’s 27th-minute header may have been heading for the back of the net, but Nunez made sure of the goal by tapping in from close range.
Speaking on Football Daily, BBC Sport pundit Nedum Onuoha analysed the goal and indeed the overall display from Nunez, saying: “There will be questions about whether he could have let it go in, but I think the poacher’s instinct was definitely there.
“I don’t think it will shift the narrative against him because there are people who think he misses too many chances and at times be on the periphery of games.
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“A goal is a goal. Strikers build themselves up on those goals that are scored, it could be the start of a run for him. The fact that it was six inches out doesn’t really matter.
“It was good for him, he was very much a part of the game, he had some shots and other opportunities. It’s always nice when a striker scores and has a big smile on their face. I think that will definitely matter for him.”
Darwin Nunez will gain confidence after Liverpool win vs RB Leipzig
Nunez joined Liverpool from Benfica for £64million in June 2022, with the attacker having endured a roller-coaster time at Anfield.
He clearly has superb ability, with the forward’s pace and determination warmly welcomed by the Liverpool fans.
But Nunez’s finishing has come under the spotlight since his arrival, with the Uruguay international often guilty of missing clear-cut chances.
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That wasn’t the case in Germany, however, with the attacker’s confidence certain to soar after his goal, even if it was one of the easiest he will ever score.
But his all-round display needs to be commended, with Nunez a constant threat to the RB Leipzig defence as he linked up well with his teammates and was as energetic as ever when trying to win the ball back.
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