Liverpool vs Real Madrid Report
Scorers: Mac Allister 52’, Gakpo 77’
Liverpool extended their perfect UEFA Champions League campaign with a commanding 2-0 victory over Real Madrid at Anfield, marking only their second positive result in their last eight meetings with the Spanish giants.
A brilliant defensive and attacking display saw the Reds outshine Los Blancos in a thrilling encounter, as they maintained their grip on the top spot in the group standings.
First Half: Reds Dominate but Fail to Break Through
The opening exchanges were marked by intensity and physicality. Darwin Núñez nearly gave Liverpool the perfect start, forcing Thibaut Courtois into an early save before Raúl Asencio cleared the loose ball off the line.
A heated battle ensued, with both Núñez and Asencio booked for a tussle in the box, and Virgil van Dijk setting the tone with a robust challenge on Kylian Mbappé.
Liverpool’s relentless pressure kept Real Madrid on the back foot. Núñez continued to be a menace, testing Courtois on multiple occasions, while Conor Bradley showcased defensive composure with a crucial tackle on Mbappé.
Despite near-misses from Luis Díaz and Curtis Jones, the first half ended goalless, with Liverpool dominating possession but unable to convert their chances.
Second Half: Liverpool Capitalize, Madrid Falter
Liverpool picked up where they left off after the interval, intensifying their search for the opener. A deflected attempt from Curtis Jones and a Courtois save from Bradley’s header set the stage for the breakthrough.
In the 55th minute, Alexis Mac Allister combined beautifully with Bradley before curling a shot beyond Courtois to give the Reds a deserved lead.
Real Madrid’s best chance came shortly after, but Caoimhín Kelleher produced a stunning save to deny Mbappé from the penalty spot after a controversial foul by Andy Robertson on Lucas Vázquez.
Liverpool responded with determination, and their persistence paid off in the 67th minute when Cody Gakpo rose highest to nod Robertson’s cross into the net, doubling their advantage.
A missed penalty by Mohamed Salah – his effort smashing off the post – did little to dampen Liverpool’s momentum, as they continued to control proceedings and nullify Madrid’s attacking threats.
What’s Next?
- Liverpool: The Reds look to continue their dominance in the UCL when they face Club Brugge next, while keeping their Premier League title push alive.
- Real Madrid: A third consecutive European defeat leaves Los Blancos in 24th place – the final play-off spot – with much work needed to salvage their UCL campaign.
Liverpool’s clinical performance underlined their credentials as serious contenders for European glory, while Real Madrid’s struggles raise questions about their ability to compete at the highest level this season.
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Liverpool vs Real Madrid | UEFA Champions League 2024/25