The tireless midfielder was exceptional in the heart of midfield, winning and distributing balls effortless in a battle that saw him get the better of Liverpool's midfielders.
Saul Niguez netted the only goal of the game after just four minutes when Atletico took advantage of a slow Liverpool in the early minutes.
The Spanish midfielder was quick to fire home after a corner came off the boot of Fabinho.
The Reds however had their own chances, which fell to Mohamed Salah, who headed wide, and captain Jordan Henderson, whose hooked shot just missed Jan Oblak's far post.
The win gives the Rojiblancos an important leead following a masterclass defensive performance and will ttravel to England for the second leg on March 11. Read Full Story
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