Every time you begin to doubt Roberto Firmino, the magical No.9 finds a way to respond.
Last night, Firmino came off the bench to provide the moment of magic to set up Liverpool’s brilliant smash-and-grab victory.
Two shots on target, two goals as Mo Salah completed the win in the San Siro and the 2,500 travelling Liverpool fans up in the Gods celebrated a precious, unforgettable win.
It was Firmino who really set it up, his introduction from the bench helped turn the tide and his sensational back header, a wonderful flick, was a timely reminder of his quality.
The San Siro is not quite what it was, it is a bit rough around the edges these days but its still regarded as one of Europe’s great football cathedrals.
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To win here is always a memorable feat, a statement of intent especially these days as Inter are enjoying a renaissance as a European force and had lost just three games in their previous 36 at home before Liverpool came to town.
Now Liverpool have got one foot in the quarter finals as they will be red-hot favourites to complete the job at Anfield in three weeks’ time.
Who needs the away goals rule when you can win like this?
Inter were unlucky but defeat was down to a combination of bad luck, poor finishing and brilliant defending as Virgil van Dijk was imperious at the back, forming a terrific partnership with Ibrahima Konate as they headed, blocked and stopped everything.
Van Dijk was magnificent, untouchable and his quality and class shines through the whole performance. When Liverpool struggle, their big Dutchman stands tall to steer them home. With him in defence, anything is possible.
Inter had chances, Lautaro Martinez was the worst offender, Hakan Calhanoglu crashed a shot against the crossbar and Liverpool were struggling which led Klopp to bring on Firmino for the rather ineffective Diogo Jota at half time.
But Inter were still very dangerous with Liverpool clinging on for dear life at the back. It was a nervous battle of wills, someone had to blink first.
Klopp was bold by giving 18-year-old Harvey Elliott his Champions League debut, Liverpool’s youngest ever in the competition proper and he had a mixed night but unquestionably has such a huge future.
Liverpool then made a treble change just before the hour mark and the momentum switched thanks to Klopp's tactics. On came new boy Luis Diaz, Naby Kieta and Jordan Henderson as Elliott, Mane and Fabinho went off. The latter must have been injured while Mane had an off night.
Liverpool’s breakthrough came after 75 minutes. Andy Robertson’s corner was perfect at the near post, Firmino was there to head past Inter keeper Samir Handanovic and just inside the far post.
Firmino has found his place under threat from Jota and Diaz but his quality is still there for all to see. What a warrior, he is not ready to give up his place in the fab three just yet.
Then came another after 83 minutes. Trent Alexander-Arnold put in a deep ball into the box, Inter could not clear and Salah scored on the turn.
Liverpool had two shots on target all night, they scored two goals and this was a brilliant, precious away victory which will keep their chase for trophies very much on course.
