Joe Gomez hailed Liverpool’s 3-0 win at Marseille and his renewed partnership with Virgil van Dijk as a defensive boost. Betting angle: punters might favour Liverpool to keep a clean sheet or win to nil in upcoming matches, especially with Gomez likely to start at centre‑back against Bournemouth or Qarabag.
Gomez urges Liverpool to take belief after Marseille boost
Liverpool defender Joe Gomez says the 3-0 victory at Marseille must provide belief and a platform for the remainder of the season. The win moved the Reds to fourth in their Champions League group with one game left and put them within reach of automatic progression.
Champions League position and next steps
A win at Anfield against Qarabag would allow Liverpool to avoid a two-legged play-off next month and seal direct qualification from the group. With league prospects increasingly difficult, Gomez believes Europe can still salvage the campaign and give the squad something to fight for.
Defensive foundation: clean sheets and form
Gomez underlined the importance of defensive stability, saying a clean sheet provides a massive foundation. He noted that while the backline has been “pretty solid,” the team has struggled at times to close out games and produce convincing victories.
Partnership with Virgil van Dijk
Making just his eighth start of the season, Gomez was paired with close friend Virgil van Dijk in Marseille — a pairing that produced a strong defensive display. Gomez described Van Dijk as “the best to do it” and praised their understanding, saying familiarity helps them anticipate each other’s tendencies and perform effectively together.
Weekend test: Bournemouth preview
Gomez is expected to continue at centre‑back for the trip to Bournemouth after Ibrahima Konaté was given compassionate leave. Liverpool’s unbeaten run extends to 13 games, but four successive draws have stalled momentum in the Premier League.
Opposition form and threats
Bournemouth arrive having won only once in their last 14 matches, though they have shown resilience at home and possess strong recruitment that has replenished their squad. Gomez warned that Bournemouth are high-intensity and that Liverpool must respect their quality and work rate.
Betting implications and tactical notes
The Marseille performance and the Gomez–van Dijk reunion suggest improved defensive assurance for Liverpool. For punters, sensible markets include Liverpool to win and keep a clean sheet, or Liverpool to win to nil, particularly at Anfield or in matches where Gomez is likely to start. Consider form, injuries, and team news before staking.
Key takeaways
Gomez wants the squad to "take belief and take the positives" from the Marseille win, maintain good habits and build on defensive solidity. With Champions League qualification still achievable, Liverpool has a clear target to reignite the season.
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Liverpool defender Joe Gomez was an excellent performer on his return to the starting line-up in midweek
Liverpool Echo
