Liverpool continued their red-hot Champions League form, securing a 2-0 victory over Real Madrid at Anfield. Goals from Alexis Mac Allister and Cody Gakpo ensured Arne Slot’s side maintained their perfect group-stage record, leaving the reigning champions teetering on the brink of elimination.
Despite the scoreline, the match was far from straightforward, with unexpected drama unfolding as Mohamed Salah and Kylian Mbappe failed to convert penalties. Liverpool’s young right-back Conor Bradley earned plaudits for a standout performance, keeping Mbappe quiet and even assisting Mac Allister’s opener.
Liverpool’s Dominance on Display
Slot’s Liverpool came into the game flying high, unbeaten in all competitions since the season began. Against Real Madrid, they showcased their high-intensity pressing and fluid attacking play, dominating possession (63%) and outshooting the visitors 17-8, leaving the audience in awe of their dominance.
The breakthrough came early in the second half. Bradley, seizing his opportunity in the absence of Trent Alexander-Arnold, whipped a perfect cross to Mac Allister, who fired past Thibaut Courtois to send Anfield into raptures.
Shortly after, Real Madrid had a chance to level. Mbappe stepped up to take a penalty following a foul on Brahim Diaz, but Caoimhin Kelleher guessed correctly, diving low to his right to make a stunning save.
Not long after, Liverpool earned a penalty of their own. Salah, usually reliable from the spot, uncharacteristically sent his effort wide, letting Madrid off the hook.
The game was finally sealed in the 78th minute when substitute Cody Gakpo slotted home after excellent work from Luis Diaz, capitalising on a tired Real Madrid defence.
Conor Bradley’s Breakthrough
Bradley’s performance was the story of the night. Tasked with containing Mbappe, the young defender delivered one of the best games of his career. His perfectly-timed tackle in the first half to dispossess the French superstar brought Anfield to its feet, earning him the appreciation of the audience.
His defensive prowess was matched by his contribution in attack, as his assist for Mac Allister’s goal proved pivotal. After the game, manager Arne Slot praised Bradley: “He showed incredible maturity and composure in such a high-pressure game. Nights like this are why we believe in him.”
Ancelotti Reflects, Slot Exudes Confidence
For Real Madrid, the result was a bitter blow. With three defeats in five group-stage matches, their qualification hopes hang by a thread. Manager Carlo Ancelotti admitted Liverpool deserved the win, saying: “We fought well but made poor decisions in key moments. Liverpool were simply better tonight.”
Meanwhile, Slot downplayed the growing hype around his team’s form. “This was a great result, but we know bigger challenges lie ahead,” he said, referring to the upcoming matches against top-tier teams. With his side poised to face Manchester City in the Premier League this weekend, he added: “We must keep improving. This team has the potential, but nothing is guaranteed.”
A Crucial Week for Liverpool
With five wins from five in the Champions League and a commanding lead in the Premier League, Liverpool are enjoying their best start in years. Blending pressing and possession-based football, Slot’s system has brought fresh energy to the squad.
As they prepare to face Manchester City, Liverpool sit 11 points clear at the Premier League summit. Victory on Sunday could solidify their status as the team to beat in England and Europe.
For Real Madrid, the road ahead is far more uncertain. With qualification hanging in the balance, Ancelotti’s men must regroup quickly to avoid a premature exit from the competition they dominated just a season ago.
Player Ratings
Liverpool: Kelleher (8), Bradley (9), Konate (7), Van Dijk (7), Robertson (6), Gravenberch (7), Jones (7), Mac Allister (8), Salah (6), Nunez (6), Diaz (7). Subs: Gakpo (7), Szoboszlai (n/a), Gomez (n/a).
Real Madrid: Courtois (6), Valverde (6), Ascencio (6), Rudiger (6), Mendy (5), Modric (6), Camavinga (7), Bellingham (6), Guler (6), Diaz (6), Mbappe (4). Subs: Vazquez (6), Ceballos (5), Garcia (6), Endrick (n/a).
Player of the Match: Conor Bradley
What’s Next?
Liverpool face Manchester City on Sunday in what promises to be a season-defining Premier League clash. With this win, they are in a strong position at the top of the Premier League, and a victory on Sunday could solidify their status as the team to beat in England and Europe. Meanwhile, Real Madrid look to salvage their Champions League campaign with a must-win game in the final group stage match, as their qualification now hangs in the balance.
