(foto: Getty Images)
Liverpool continued its exceptional run this season with a thrilling 2-1 victory over Real Madrid at Anfield, extending their unbeaten streak in the Champions League.
Two European powerhouses clashed at the iconic Anfield, where Liverpool hosted Real Madrid in a highly anticipated Champions League matchup. Under manager Arne Slot, Liverpool showcased their strength, defeating the Spanish giants in a dramatic encounter.
The opening half saw Liverpool creating more concrete chances. Darwin Nunez tested Thibaut Courtois twice but couldn’t find the back of the net. Real Madrid’s makeshift lineup, featuring Brahim Diaz and Arda Güler in attack, and 21-year-old Raul Asencio in defense, struggled to gain momentum. Luis Diaz came close in the 34th minute, but Courtois once again proved reliable, keeping the scoreline level at 0-0 going into halftime.
Liverpool broke the deadlock early in the second half. A clever combination between Conor Bradley and Alexis Mac Allister ended with a clinical finish, giving the Reds a 1-0 lead. Real Madrid had a golden opportunity to equalize in the 59th minute when Andy Robertson committed a foul on Lucas Vazquez, but Kylian Mbappe failed to convert the penalty, with Caoimhin Kelleher making a spectacular save.
Ten minutes later, Liverpool were awarded a penalty after Mohamed Salah was brought down by Ferland Mendy, but the Egyptian star surprisingly missed, keeping the match tense. The decisive moment came in the 76th minute when substitute Cody Gakpo headed in a perfect cross from Robertson following a short corner, sealing the victory for Liverpool.
Liverpool's dominant performance keeps them unbeaten in all competitions this season, with their tactical discipline and individual brilliance shining through under Slot's leadership. Meanwhile, Real Madrid, despite their resilience, struggled to match Liverpool’s intensity and are left ruing missed chances, particularly Mbappe's penalty miss.