LIVERPOOL, United Kingdom (AFP) — Liverpool delivered a stunning 2-0 victory over Real Madrid on Wednesday, leaving the Spanish giants reeling after their third Champions League defeat in just five games. The Reds’ perfect record remained intact as they climbed back to the top of their group, with goals from Alexis Mac Allister and Cody Gakpo securing the win.
Madrid’s star striker, Kylian Mbappe, had a penalty saved early in the second half, a pivotal moment that further compounded a difficult night for Carlo Ancelotti’s side. Despite a missed penalty by Mohamed Salah, the result highlighted Liverpool’s relentless pursuit of glory under manager Arne Slot, who has now won 17 of his first 19 games in charge.
“We’ve had some tough encounters with Madrid, but tonight was a statement,” Slot said. “To beat the reigning champions, a team that’s dominated European football, feels incredibly special.”
The victory was particularly sweet for Liverpool, who had unfinished business with Madrid after enduring painful defeats to them in the Champions League finals of 2018 and 2022. With this result, Liverpool avenged those losses, proving that they are now a serious contender on the European stage.
Real Madrid’s injury crisis was evident as they arrived without several key players, including Vinicius Junior, Rodrygo, and Aurelien Tchouameni. Young defender Raul Asencio was thrust into action and produced a crucial goal-line clearance early in the match to prevent Darwin Nunez from scoring.
Despite Madrid’s defensive struggles, goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois was in inspired form, saving multiple Liverpool efforts, including a close-range shot from Nunez. But it was Liverpool’s relentless attack that eventually broke through. Mac Allister scored a beautifully crafted goal in the 52nd minute, and just minutes later, Gakpo sealed the victory with a powerful header.
Mbappe, who had been expected to carry Madrid’s hopes, struggled to make an impact, largely thwarted by the defensive partnership of Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konate. His best chance to make a difference came in the form of a penalty in the 60th minute, but Liverpool’s backup goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher stepped up with a vital save, preserving his clean sheet.
Salah, who had been in scintillating form this season, had earlier missed his own penalty, but the Reds weren’t fazed. Gakpo’s header in the 68th minute put the game beyond reach, sending Anfield into raptures.
For Real Madrid, this defeat is another blow in what has been a challenging campaign. They now find themselves sitting in 24th place, with only the top 24 teams advancing to the knockout stages. With several games still to play, Ancelotti’s men will need to regroup quickly if they are to avoid an early exit.
Liverpool, on the other hand, are soaring. They are firmly in control of their group, and with their Premier League dominance also in full swing, this victory only adds to their growing momentum. The team’s confidence is sky-high, and if they can maintain this level of performance, they will be a force to be reckoned with as the tournament progresses.
