There was much to admire in Liverpool’s comfortable 2-0 win over Real Madrid, but what might you have missed?
In a thrilling clash at Anfield, the team considered the best in Europe triumphed over the reigning Champions League holders as Alexis Mac Allister scored the first goal, followed by a superb header from Cody Gakpo ensuring that Liverpool have maintained an impeccable Champions League record this season.
Here are six notable moments from the Reds’ remarkable performance against Madrid.
Despite Trent Alexander-Arnold’s absence against the iconic club he is often associated with, his presence was felt. In the tunnel after the game, Ryan Gravenberch was seen presenting Trent’s number 66 jersey to Jude Bellingham, a gesture that is sure to fuel further speculation.
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While Trent and Jude share a close friendship, it might be wise not to read too much into this incident.
Conor Bradley’s fierce effort against Kylian Mbappe was celebrated as passionately as one of Liverpool’s goals. However, the French superstar also found himself committing another hard foul that you may have missed. In a game marked by intensity, Virgil van Dijk made it clear with a powerful effort that Mbappe went down.
Mbappe, true to form, tried to draw attention to the foul, which resulted in Gravenberch being shown a yellow card for complaining after he protested vigorously.
Van Dijk was a fortress for Liverpool all night; it’s easy to take your achievements for granted these days!
Along with Bradley, Caoimhin Kelleher emerged as Liverpool’s savior, saving a crucial second-half penalty from Mbappe – his third save from four Reds penalty attempts and undoubtedly his most significant to date!
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Watching proudly from the stands, Alisson couldn’t hide his smile after the parade, no doubt impressed by his teammate’s heroics. Ali may even be feeling pressure over his position on the grid!
In the final minutes of the game, Endrick, who came on as a substitute, attacked Ibrahim Konate roughly and attracted attention with his risky play. Footage showed an unnecessary tackle that caused Konate to walk off the pitch with a limp after the game.
On an otherwise brilliant evening for Liverpool, Mohamed Salah’s missed penalty stood out as a rare blunder. The Egyptian’s wayward shot went wide, meaning he couldn’t add to his impressive goalscoring tally, much to the surprise of his family – his brother Nasr was seen covering his mouth in dismay as he realized his sibling might make a mistake .
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Prominent personalities were present at the stadium, including recently retired tennis icon Rafa Nadal. Despite being known as a Real Madrid fan, he was caught seriously trying to sing along to “You’ll Never Walk Alone.” Even though it didn’t hit the right notes, it was moving to see such an effort.
Former Liverpool manager Rafa Benitez also appeared, appearing more engrossed in his phone during stoppage time than in the exciting events unfolding in front of him!
The win marked Liverpool’s fifth win in as many Champions League appearances this season, making them the team to beat. Impressively, the Reds have already officially secured their place in at least the playoff rounds, so any thoughts of a group stage elimination are unfounded – failing to reach the knockout stages from this position would be a huge surprise indeed.
