Liverpool secures 2-0 victory over Real Madrid
Arne Slot's Liverpool continued their remarkable run in the Champions League with a commanding 2-0 win against Real Madrid at Anfield. The Dutch manager, who has revitalized Liverpool this season, guided his team to another impressive victory, with Cody Gakpo sealing the win with a late header. Liverpool started strong, dominating possession and creating the better chances in the first half. With Virgil van Dijk and Ryan Gravenberch in the starting lineup, the Reds controlled the tempo of the game. The best opportunity of the half fell to Darwin Núñez, but his close-range effort was saved by Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois, keeping the scoreline level at halftime.
Second half: Mac Allister breaks the deadlock
The second half began with Liverpool ramping up the pressure. Courtois was called into action again early, denying Conor Bradley from scoring. However, moments later, Alexis Mac Allister found the breakthrough with a clinical diagonal strike that left the Belgian goalkeeper with no chance. The goal put Liverpool ahead 1-0 and firmly in control of the match.
Drama on both ends
Real Madrid had a golden opportunity to equalize when they were awarded a penalty following a foul by Andy Robertson. Kylian Mbappé, the star of the Spanish giants, stepped up to take the spot-kick but was denied by Liverpool’s goalkeeper Caoimhín Kelleher, whose heroic save preserved the Reds’ lead. Liverpool had a chance to extend their advantage with a penalty of their own after Mohamed Salah was fouled. However, Salah’s effort flew wide, keeping the game on edge. Despite the missed opportunity, Liverpool’s dominance was evident, and their defense, led by Van Dijk, stood firm against Real’s sporadic attacks.
Gakpo’s header seals the win
As the match entered the closing stages, substitute Cody Gakpo rose to the occasion. The Dutch forward connected with a well-delivered cross, heading the ball past Courtois to double Liverpool’s lead. The 2-0 scoreline secured a well-deserved victory for the home side, sparking celebrations among the Anfield faithful.
Slot’s Liverpool continues to impress
Under Arne Slot’s leadership, Liverpool has lost just one match this season—a narrow 0-1 defeat to Nottingham Forest—and remains unbeaten in the Champions League. The team’s transformation under the former Feyenoord manager has been remarkable, with fans already comparing his impact to that of his predecessor, Jürgen Klopp. The win against Real Madrid boosts Liverpool’s confidence as they prepare for another crucial fixture. On Sunday, they face Manchester City at Anfield. A victory over their rivals would widen the gap to 11 points, further cementing Liverpool’s position at the top of the table.