Liverpool gets the better of Maribor to top group

The result leaves Juergen Klopp’s side top of the group on eight points -- one ahead of Sevilla and three clear of Spartak Moscow -- and a win in Seville in the next game will secure its place in the last 16. 

Maribor had learned its lesson after suffering an embarrassing 7-0 home defeat in Slovenia and defended in numbers, keeping a compact shape and allowing Liverpool plenty of possession but few chances. 

Yet second-half goals from Mohamed Salah, Emre Can and substitute Daniel Sturridge wrapped up the win and ensured Liverpool did not pay a heavy price for James Milner’s failure to score from the penalty spot. 

Liverpool was without defender Dejan Lovren and Brazilian midfielder Philippe Coutinho, who were both ruled out with thigh injuries, and Klopp gave only a second start to Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain on the left of a front three. 

Liverpool suffered a further injury blow when Georginio Wijnaldum pulled up with an ankle problem after 17 minutes to be replaced by Jordan Henderson. In Naples, Manchester City contuined its fine run of form with a 4-2 win over Napoli. 

German side Borussia Dortmund, placed third in its group currently with two points, drew with APOEL 1-1 at home.