Liverpool dominates Bayer Leverkusen in second half

Liverpool continued their winning form in the Champions League, defeating Bayer Leverkusen 4-0 at Anfield with a sensational second-half performance. Under the leadership of new manager Arne Slot, Liverpool remains unbeaten in Europe, securing 12 points and staying at the top of the league table. Bayer Leverkusen, managed by former Liverpool midfielder Xabi Alonso, struggled to keep up as Luis Díaz and Cody Gakpo led the Reds to an emphatic win.

A quiet start at Anfield

The first half of the match saw few clear-cut chances for either side. Bayer Leverkusen’s Jeremie Frimpong managed to create some danger, coming close twice. In one instance, Frimpong was lightly challenged by Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk in the box, but Dutch referee Danny Makkelie and VAR determined that the contact wasn’t enough for a penalty. Frimpong found the back of the net just before halftime, but his goal was disallowed due to a handball, keeping the score at 0-0.

Liverpool turns up the heat

After the break, Liverpool came out with renewed energy, taking full control of the match. Luis Díaz opened the scoring with his first of three goals, marking a memorable night for the Colombian as he netted his first hat-trick for the club. Díaz’s pace and movement proved too much for the Leverkusen defense, setting the tone for a dominant second half. Cody Gakpo, frequently swapping positions with Díaz, scored Liverpool’s second goal, heading in a cross from Mohamed Salah at the far post. The chemistry between Liverpool’s attackers was evident, and the Anfield crowd roared in support of their team and new manager. The atmosphere was electric, with fans chanting “Arne Slot, nananana” in the closing stages.

Key performances from Liverpool’s stars

Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk delivered a commanding performance at the back, helping nullify Leverkusen’s attempts to respond. Ryan Gravenberch also shone, showing impressive skill as he assisted Salah after a superb dribble, adding to Liverpool’s relentless attack. In contrast, Bayer Leverkusen struggled to find their rhythm, with former fan-favorite Xabi Alonso enduring a tough return to Anfield. Despite Leverkusen’s exceptional season last year, the German champions could not match Liverpool’s intensity in the second half.

Conclusion: Slot’s Liverpool on top in Europe and the Premier League

With this fourth consecutive Champions League win, Liverpool solidified their lead in the league-style European competition, with Sporting Portugal and AS Monaco trailing by two points. Arne Slot’s Liverpool continues to impress both domestically and internationally, also holding first place in the Premier League with 25 points, two ahead of Manchester City. For Xabi Alonso and Bayer Leverkusen, it was a night to forget. Leverkusen currently sits eleventh in the Champions League standings with seven points and has faced setbacks in the Bundesliga as well. Liverpool, on the other hand, looks poised for continued success under Slot, as the new Anfield boss cements his place in the hearts of fans.