Liverpool continued their winning streak in the UEFA Champions League with a 2-0 victory over Bologna at Anfield. Mohamed Salah’s record-breaking performance was the highlight of the night, as the Egyptian forward not only provided an assist for the first goal but also scored a stunning volley to seal the win. With this result, Liverpool maintained their dominance at home in Europe, extending their record of winning 11 consecutive group-stage matches at Anfield.
This match also saw Liverpool manager Arne Slot make history, becoming the first Reds coach to win eight of his first nine games. Despite Bologna missing key players, they still managed to challenge Liverpool with several dangerous chances. However, it was Liverpool’s attacking brilliance and defensive resilience that secured the victory. In this article, we’ll break down the key moments of the match, Salah’s record-setting night, and what this means for Liverpool’s Champions League campaign.
Salah Shines Again: A Record-Breaking Night
Mohamed Salah’s form in the Champions League continues to impress, and this match against Bologna was no exception. Salah has been directly involved in 13 goals in his last 11 home appearances in European competition, and he added two more to that tally on Wednesday night. He first set up Alexis Mac Allister’s opener in the 11th minute with a precise cross and then capped off the night with a stunning volley in the 75th minute, securing the 2-0 win.
#UCL pic.twitter.com/8lJWRvMr8P
— UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) October 2, 2024
Salah’s goal not only sealed the victory for Liverpool but also made history. He became the first Liverpool player to score in five consecutive home games in the UEFA Champions League, a remarkable achievement that further cements his legacy as one of the club’s all-time greats. Salah’s ability to deliver in big European nights has been crucial for Liverpool’s success in the competition, and his contribution in this match was vital.
How the Match Unfolded: Early Dominance and Bologna’s Fightback
Liverpool started the match with intent, pressing high and looking to score early. Their efforts paid off in the 11th minute when Alexis Mac Allister found the back of the net after a swift attacking move. Mac Allister initiated the play by passing to Darwin Nunez, who worked the ball wide to Salah. The Egyptian’s cross was perfectly placed, and Mac Allister finished the move with a clinical strike to give Liverpool the lead.
Bologna, despite missing some key players like Riccardo Calafiori and Marko Arnautovic, did not back down. They created a few good chances, including two shots that hit the woodwork, with Dan Ndoye rattling the crossbar twice in quick succession. Alisson was called into action several times, producing a series of crucial saves, including a fine stop from Riccardo Orsolini in the second half.
Liverpool had their own chances to extend the lead, with Darwin Nunez having a goal ruled out for offside and forcing a save from Bologna goalkeeper Łukasz Skorupski. However, it wasn’t until the 75th minute that Liverpool found their second goal, thanks to Mohamed Salah’s brilliance.
Salah’s Second-Half Magic Seals the Win
The second half saw Bologna push for an equalizer, but Liverpool’s defense, marshaled by Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konaté, held firm. However, it was once again Mohamed Salah who provided the magic moment to put the game beyond Bologna’s reach.
In the 75th minute, Trent Alexander-Arnold created space by drawing two Bologna defenders away, giving Salah the opening he needed. Salah dribbled in from the right flank and unleashed a powerful left-footed volley into the top corner, leaving Skorupski with no chance. It was a vintage Salah moment—precision, power, and an unerring ability to find the back of the net when it mattered most.
The goal was the icing on the cake for Liverpool, and from that point on, the result was never in doubt. Bologna tried to respond, but Liverpool’s defense, along with Alisson’s heroics, ensured the clean sheet.
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Arne Slot’s Tactical Masterclass
Liverpool manager Arne Slot continues to impress with his tactical approach, and this match was another example of his astute game management. Slot set up Liverpool to press high from the start, putting Bologna under pressure and forcing mistakes. His decision to start with Darwin Nunez as the focal point of the attack paid off, as Nunez’s movement and link-up play caused problems for Bologna’s defense.
Slot’s substitutions were also impactful. Although Nunez had a strong game, Slot’s decision to bring on Diogo Jota injected fresh energy into Liverpool’s attack. Meanwhile, Salah continued to be a constant threat throughout the match, and Slot’s instructions to Alexander-Arnold to create space on the right flank gave Salah the opportunity to score the decisive second goal.
Best performance? #UCL pic.twitter.com/ELySVRkN92
— UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) October 2, 2024
By winning eight of his first nine games as Liverpool manager, Slot has made a historic start to his tenure. His blend of high pressing, quick transitions, and effective use of substitutions has revitalized Liverpool’s attacking play, and the team looks well-equipped to challenge for silverware this season.
Bologna’s Missed Opportunities
While Liverpool ultimately deserved their win, Bologna will feel they had opportunities to get something from the game. Missing key players like Calafiori, Zirkzee, and Arnautovic, Bologna still managed to create several clear-cut chances but were unable to capitalize.
Dan Ndoye’s two shots off the crossbar were moments that could have turned the game, and Riccardo Orsolini forced a fine save from Alisson early in the second half. Had Bologna been more clinical in front of goal, the match could have unfolded differently.
Despite the result, Bologna showed that they can compete against top European opposition. However, their inexperience and the loss of key players to transfers and injury ultimately made the difference.
Liverpool March On, Salah and Slot Make History
Liverpool’s 2-0 victory over Bologna was a statement of intent in the Champions League. Mohamed Salah’s record-breaking night and Arne Slot’s tactical masterclass ensured that Liverpool maintained their perfect European home record. With this win, Liverpool are well-positioned to progress further in the competition.
Salah’s performance once again highlighted his importance to the team, while Slot’s management continues to deliver results. As Liverpool look ahead to the next round of fixtures, they can do so with confidence, knowing they have the talent and tactical nous to compete with Europe’s best.
