Liverpool rediscovered the intensity, belief, and organisation that defined their title-winning debut season under Arne Slot, defeating Real Madrid in a commanding Champions League performance at Anfield.
Ultimately, it was not about who returned to Anfield, but what returned the Liverpool of Slot’s title-winning campaign. On their second successive November visit, Real Madrid found no answer to the hosts’ relentless energy and control.
Alexis Mac Allister, who opened the scoring in last season’s 2-0 victory over the Spanish giants, settled this latest reunion of European heavyweights with another decisive goal. His powerful header not only secured a crucial win but reignited Liverpool’s Champions League campaign and possibly their entire season.
Another clean sheet and a goal from a set-piece further enhanced Slot’s satisfaction on what was a raucous, reaffirming night at Anfield.
Xabi Alonso’s Real Madrid were second best throughout, with stars like Kylian Mbappé, Jude Bellingham, and Vinícius Júnior struggling to make an impact. Only Thibaut Courtois’s outstanding display prevented a heavier defeat. Alonso was booked on his return to Anfield, while Trent Alexander-Arnold, whose mural was vandalised earlier in the day faced boos upon his late introduction.
A late passage summed up Liverpool’s dominance. An aimless cross from Alexander-Arnold was calmly ushered out by Conor Bradley, who physically outmuscled Vinícius Júnior to the delight of the home fans.
Liverpool began on the front foot, pressing high and forcing mistakes. Florian Wirtz, recalled to the lineup, dispossessed Dean Huijsen to create an early chance that Mac Allister missed, setting the tone for the match. Bradley, meanwhile, excelled defensively, winning duels against Vinícius and igniting the crowd with his fearless tackling.
“One Conor Bradley” echoed around Anfield as fans celebrated his best performance of the season.
For almost an hour, it seemed Courtois might frustrate Liverpool again, as he made several crucial saves from Dominik Szoboszlai, Mac Allister, and Virgil van Dijk. Controversy arose when Szoboszlai’s shot struck Aurélien Tchouaméni’s hand inside the area, but referee Istvan Kovacs overturned his decision after a VAR review, denying Liverpool a penalty.
The setback only spurred the home side on. After Bellingham fouled Ryan Gravenberch, Szoboszlai delivered a pinpoint free-kick which Mac Allister met with a powerful header, finally beating Courtois. VAR checked for offside but confirmed the goal, sparking celebrations across Anfield.
Liverpool’s intensity and precision ensured a memorable night as they outplayed the Spanish league leaders. For Arne Slot, it was a performance full of substance, proof that Liverpool are truly back.
Faridah Abdulkadiri
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