Liverpool show European authority at Anfield
Under the lights at Anfield, Liverpool rediscovered their most forceful European stride, sweeping aside Real Madrid with an authority that offered both revival and reassurance. This Champions League clash carried echoes of classic continental nights on Merseyside, and Arne Slot’s side delivered with precision and persistence. Fresh from ending a troubling domestic spell with victory against Aston Villa, the Premier League champions carried that momentum into a contest rich in narrative and heavy with emotion.
Alexis Mac Allister provided the decisive touch, yet the dominance belonged to Liverpool long before the breakthrough arrived. Real Madrid, weighed down by Liverpool’s tempo and intensity, clung to the contest only through Thibaut Courtois’ heroic defiance. Courtois produced four outstanding saves from Dominik Szoboszlai and a sharp reflex stop to repel Virgil van Dijk’s powerful header. Slot’s players maintained belief, control and rhythm, and eventually cracked Real when Mac Allister arrived to head in from a Szoboszlai free kick after 61 minutes.
Bradley rises to the moment
Trent Alexander-Arnold, now in Real white, watched from the bench as his former club surged. When he entered late, the response from Anfield was raw and fierce, a reminder of loyalty and loss entwined. He could not shift the tide. As the manager observes, Liverpool showed no hesitation and refused to allow Jude Bellingham or Kylian Mbappe influence.
In contrast, Conor Bradley shone. The 22-year-old Northern Irishman reaffirmed why many see him as a natural successor in that right sided role. His duel with Vinicius Jr roused the crowd, his energy and bravery symbolic of Liverpool’s resurgence. The fans chanted his name with pride.
Midfield control and defensive steel
Szoboszlai dictated with invention, only denied by Courtois, while Mac Allister’s sharp form has restored rhythm to Liverpool’s midfield. The back line, firm and alert, gave Real no encouragement. Liverpool earned their 1-0 win, climbed to sixth, and strengthened their route towards the last 16.
