Liverpool climbed to the top of their Champions League group on matchday five, securing a 2-0 win over Real Madrid at Anfield and ending a 14-year drought against the Spanish powerhouse.
Alexis Mac Allister opened the scoring early in the second half, capitalizing on Liverpool’s dominance. Real Madrid had a chance to respond when Kylian Mbappé won a penalty, but Caoimhin Kelleher made a crucial save to deny him. Although Mohamed Salah later missed a penalty for Liverpool, Cody Gakpo’s late header sealed a well-deserved victory for the Reds.
This triumph marked Liverpool’s first win over Real Madrid since 2009, breaking an eight-game winless streak. Meanwhile, Carlo Ancelotti’s side faces an uphill battle to qualify for the knockout stage after suffering three defeats in five group matches.
Match Summary
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Liverpool came out firing, with Darwin Núñez nearly forcing an own goal from Real Madrid defender Raúl Asencio just four minutes in. However, Madrid weathered the early storm, settling into patient possession play and slowing the tempo.
The Anfield crowd roared back to life after Conor Bradley’s crunching tackle on Mbappé midway through the first half, sparking a period of Liverpool pressure. Darwin Núñez nodded wide, and Luis Díaz forced a sharp save from Thibaut Courtois after clever passes from Mac Allister. Despite Liverpool’s attacking intent, the game remained goalless at halftime.
Second Half Drama
Liverpool resumed their dominance after the break. Conor Bradley saw his header denied by Courtois, but moments later, he combined with Mac Allister, who drilled a low shot into the bottom corner to give Liverpool a deserved lead.
Madrid’s chance to equalize came almost immediately when Andy Robertson fouled Lucas Vázquez in the box. However, Kelleher denied Mbappé with a superb save, diving low to his left to preserve the lead and energize the home crowd.
The drama continued when Salah earned a penalty after outfoxing Ferland Mendy, only to blast his effort wide, clipping the outside of the post.
Liverpool quickly put the miss behind them, and Cody Gakpo rose highest to head home Robertson’s pinpoint cross in the 77th minute, effectively ending Madrid’s hopes of a comeback.
Talking Points
- Mac Allister Shines: The Argentine midfielder’s creativity and composure were central to Liverpool’s victory, capped off with a clinical goal.
- Kelleher’s Heroics: The young goalkeeper proved his worth with a crucial penalty save that shifted the game’s momentum.
- Madrid’s Struggles: Real’s lack of cutting edge, combined with defensive lapses, leaves them facing a tough road to the next round.
Liverpool’s victory not only solidifies their position atop the group but also sends a statement of intent as they continue their flawless Champions League campaign.