Liverpool Ends Real Madrid’s Dominance with 2-0 Triumph
Liverpool exacted long-awaited revenge on Real Madrid with a decisive 2-0 victory at Anfield on Wednesday, a result that not only dented the reigning champions’ Champions League campaign but also solidified the Reds’ dominance in Group D.
Goals from Alexis Mac Allister and Cody Gakpo in the second half ended Madrid’s eight-match unbeaten streak against Liverpool, which included the painful defeats in the 2018 and 2022 Champions League finals.
Arne Slot’s men, riding high with a flawless group stage record and top of the Premier League, showed composure and resilience in front of a raucous Anfield crowd. The win marked Slot’s 17th victory in 19 matches in charge, surpassing Jurgen Klopp’s achievements against the Spanish giants.
Mbappé Misses, Liverpool Prevails
Kylian Mbappé, who carried Madrid’s attacking hopes in the absence of Vinícius Jr., saw his penalty saved by Liverpool’s second-choice goalkeeper, Caoimhin Kelleher. The Irishman stepped up brilliantly in the absence of injured Alisson Becker, denying Mbappé with a spectacular dive to his left.
Madrid’s woes began early as Thibaut Courtois, who had haunted Liverpool with a masterclass in the 2022 final, kept the visitors afloat with a series of stunning saves, including thwarting Darwin Núñez twice from close range.
However, Liverpool’s persistence paid off. In the 52nd minute, Conor Bradley found Mac Allister, who evaded his markers and curled a precise shot into the far corner. The Argentine midfielder’s moment of brilliance ignited Anfield.
Salah missed an opportunity to double the lead after being brought down by Ferland Mendy, firing his penalty off the post. But Liverpool refused to relent, and six minutes later, substitute Cody Gakpo sealed the victory with a commanding header from a corner.
Madrid Crumbles Under Pressure
Hampered by an injury crisis that sidelined key players like Vinícius Jr., Dani Carvajal, and Éder Militão, Real Madrid struggled to contain Liverpool’s relentless pressure. The defeat drops Carlo Ancelotti’s side to 24th in the standings, leaving their hopes of progressing to the knockout stage hanging by a thread.
Madrid’s rookie centre-back, Raúl Asencio, made an early goal-line clearance to deny Núñez but was overwhelmed as Liverpool’s attack continued to exploit gaps in the Spanish side’s defence.
A Step Towards Redemption
Liverpool’s victory not only avenged years of heartbreak but also reaffirmed their aspirations for European glory. The Reds remain firmly on course to qualify for the knockout stages and, with momentum on their side, appear poised to challenge for top honours.
As Madrid licks its wounds and assesses its diminishing chances, Liverpool marches on with renewed confidence, buoyed by their ability to overcome the psychological hurdle of defeating their most formidable European nemesis. FBN Holdings Rights Issue Matches Market Price at N25
