Liverpool manager, Jurgen Klopp, has said that he did not expect Paul Onuachu to start Wednesday night’s Champions League match against Racing Genk, saying it was a bit difficult for his men to win an aerial battle with the Nigeria international.
In truth, Felice Mazzu, coach of Racing Genk, took everyone by surprise by lining up in a 4-4-2 formation with Onuachu leading the attack and Mbwana Samatta playing behind him.
ALSO READ: Onuachu completes Genk move
A brace from Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and efforts from Sadio Mane and Mohamed Salah saw the European champions win their first away game in this season’s Champions League, while another Nigerian Stephen Odey netted a consolatory goal for Genk.
Speaking post-match, Klopp told reporters: ”It was a smart move to start with such a tall striker [Onuachu]. Their 4-4-2 didn’t make such a big difference in itself, because it didn’t change much in their defensive organisation.
”But Onuachu was strong as a starter and it was important not to constantly compete with him because then we could make too many mistakes.
ALSO READ: Onuachu completes Genk move
”We were on the right track, only giving away too easy chances due to unnecessary ball loss or unnecessary risks in the game.”
The 2.01 meters tall Onuachu was in action for 81 minutes before making way for compatriot Stephen Odey, who later scored his side’s consolatory goal.