Liverpool delivered a commanding performance at Anfield on Wednesday night, defeating reigning Champions League holders Real Madrid 2-0. This victory marked a significant milestone for manager Arne Slot’s Reds, maintaining their perfect record in the group stage and demonstrating their growing confidence and dominance in Europe.
The match saw standout performances from young talents like Conor Bradley and goalkeeper CaoimhÃn Kelleher, who denied Kylian Mbappé from the penalty spot. The result not only cements Liverpool’s position at the top of the standings but also showcased their ability to exorcise demons from past defeats to Madrid.
Liverpool Assert Dominance Over European Nemesis
Real Madrid have long been a thorn in Liverpool’s side, eliminating them from the Champions League in four of the past seven seasons, including the finals in 2018 and 2022. This encounter, however, told a different story.
From the outset, Liverpool were relentless, pressing high, winning physical battles, and disrupting Madrid’s rhythm. The win secured Liverpool’s status as the only team with a 100% record in this season’s group stage, underlining their resurgence under Slot’s management.
Madrid, meanwhile, looked a shadow of their usual selves. Missing key players like VinÃcius Júnior, David Alaba, and Aurelien Tchouaméni, they failed to establish any real foothold in the game, slipping to their third defeat in five matches.
Conor Bradley’s Star Turn
Conor Bradley delivered a standout performance at right-back, going toe-to-toe with Kylian Mbappé, one of the world’s most dangerous forwards. Bradley not only kept Mbappé quiet but also contributed significantly in attack. His second-half assist for Alexis Mac Allister’s opening goal was a testament to his energy and determination.
The Anfield crowd roared in approval as Bradley made a perfectly timed slide tackle on Mbappé in the first half, setting the tone for the evening. Forced off late in the game with a minor injury, he left the pitch to a standing ovation, having firmly announced himself as a player for the reds future.
Kelleher’s Penalty Heroics
Stepping in for the injured Alisson Becker, CaoimhÃn Kelleher showcased why he is one of the most promising young goalkeepers in Europe. His defining moment came in the second half when he saved Kylian Mbappé’s penalty, preserving Liverpool’s slender 1-0 lead.
The penalty save epitomized Kelleher’s composure and confidence under pressure, further frustrating an already lackluster Madrid side. His performance between the posts provided Liverpool with the stability they needed in the absence of their first-choice keeper.
Mac Allister and Gakpo Seal the Win
The breakthrough came early in the second half when Bradley surged forward and delivered a precise pass to Mac Allister. The Argentine took a touch before curling a low shot into the far corner, leaving Thibaut Courtois helpless. The goal was a reward for Liverpool’s dominance and set the tone for the remainder of the match.
Cody Gakpo added the second late in the game, heading in Andy Robertson’s perfectly executed cross from a short corner. The Dutch forward’s clinical finish highlighted Liverpool’s ability to capitalize on set pieces and put the game beyond Madrid’s reach.
READ NEXT:
- Wirtz Steals the Show as Leverkusen Dismantle Salzburg in 5-0 Rout
- Champions League Matchday 5 Roundup: Feyenoord Stun Man City, Barcelona and Inter Triumph, Bayern Edge PSG
- Liverpool vs. Real Madrid: 10 Insights You Need to Know About the Champions League Clash at Anfield
Madrid’s Struggles and Mbappé’s Off Night
Real Madrid were far from their best, and their injury-hit squad was exposed by Liverpool’s intensity. The absence of VinÃcius Júnior left a void in their attack, forcing Kylian Mbappé to operate on the left wing. Mbappé, however, endured a frustrating evening, characterized by turnovers, poor decision-making, and a missed penalty.
Jude Bellingham, another key figure for Madrid, struggled to impose himself in midfield. Playing on the left of a midfield trio, Bellingham was frequently forced wide, limiting his effectiveness. The lack of cohesion in Madrid’s play was evident as they failed to create meaningful chances and looked increasingly vulnerable to Liverpool’s high press.
Physical Edge Defines Liverpool’s Approach
Liverpool’s physicality played a crucial role in unsettling Madrid. Virgil van Dijk set the tone with a robust challenge on Mbappé in the 17th minute, gesturing for him to get up after the forward stayed on the ground. Ryan Gravenberch and Darwin Núñez also clashed with Madrid players in fiery exchanges, earning yellow cards.
This aggressive approach disrupted Madrid’s rhythm and forced them into errors, particularly in midfield and defense. By the second half, Madrid’s players appeared worn down by Liverpool’s relentless pressing.
Caoimhin Kelleher and Alexis Mac Allister join @julesbreach to discuss a special European night at Anfield
@tntsports & @discoveryplusUK pic.twitter.com/7CfC6MHCqg
— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) November 27, 2024
Missed Penalties but No Regrets
Both sides had opportunities from the penalty spot, but neither converted. Mohamed Salah won The reds penalty after a dazzling run but sent his effort wide, drawing gasps from the crowd. Shortly afterward, Madrid earned a spot-kick when Robertson fouled Lucas Vázquez, but Kelleher’s save from Mbappé ensured Liverpool’s lead remained intact.
While Salah’s miss could have been costly, Liverpool’s dominance meant they never lost control of the game, quickly regaining composure to secure the win.
Match Statistics
- Possession: Liverpool 61%, Real Madrid 39%
- Shots on Target: Liverpool 5, Real Madrid 2
- Corners: Liverpool 8, Real Madrid 5
- Fouls: Liverpool 10, Real Madrid 9
The stats tell the story of a match controlled by Liverpool, who were more proactive and clinical in key moments.
Looking Ahead
Liverpool now turn their attention to a Premier League showdown against Manchester City on Sunday. Sitting eight points clear at the top of the table, a win could extend their lead to 11 points and deal a significant blow to their title rivals.
Real Madrid, meanwhile, face an uphill battle in Europe. Sitting 24th in the standings, their next match against Atalanta is a must-win to keep their Champions League hopes alive.
Liverpool are the first team to confirm their place in the round of 16 or knockout phase play-offs âš½#UCL pic.twitter.com/ebUtmFxFeW
— UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) November 27, 2024
