Liverpool dominate Real Madrid with a brilliant header from Mac Allister, overshadowing Alexander-Arnold’s controversial return
It wasn’t about who was returning to Anfield, but rather what returned: the intensity, belief, and dominance of Liverpool under Arne Slot. In a memorable clash against Real Madrid, Liverpool took control early and never let up, securing a deserved 1-0 victory to reignite their Champions League aspirations. The result, featuring a stunning header from Alexis Mac Allister, gave Liverpool a major boost and added an unforgettable chapter to their season.
Real Madrid, on the other hand, were a pale shadow of their usual self. The likes of Kylian Mbappé, Jude Bellingham, and Vinícius Júnior, so often match-winners, were barely in the game, and Liverpool’s defensive resilience kept them at arm’s length. Thibaut Courtois, Real’s goalkeeper, was a constant figure of defiance, but his brilliance couldn’t stop the inevitable.
Mac Allister, who had been pivotal in Liverpool’s 2-0 defeat of Madrid in the previous season, was once again the hero, his header from a powerful Szoboszlai free-kick in the second half breaking Courtois’ resistance. It was a culmination of relentless pressure, especially with Courtois repeatedly denying shots from Dominik Szoboszlai, Mac Allister, and Virgil van Dijk. Real Madrid couldn’t contain Liverpool’s attacking waves, with the impressive Giorgi Mamardashvili having little more to do than watch Liverpool attack from all sides.
In the first half, Real Madrid had few opportunities. An early strike from Szoboszlai was denied by Courtois, but it was a controversial moment soon after that riled up Anfield. A handball by Tchouaméni inside the box from a Szoboszlai shot seemed a clear penalty, but after a VAR review, referee István Kovács overturned the decision, much to the crowd’s fury. It was a decision that seemed to energise Liverpool even further, with Anfield erupting in frustration, but ultimately channeling it into their play.
Conor Bradley, making a statement in his battle with Vinícius Júnior, was central to Liverpool’s pressing game. The Northern Irish defender has earned rave reviews after a superb performance, frustrating Madrid’s star winger throughout. Bradley’s confrontation with Vinícius saw the Brazilian booked for a foul, and later on, an embarrassing dive inside the Liverpool box.
As the game progressed, Real Madrid seemed more disjointed. Bellingham, who had been lauded as one of the most dynamic midfielders in Europe, was effectively nullified, while Arda Güler and other attackers couldn’t break down Liverpool’s defensive line. Courtois made countless saves, but the Belgian couldn’t keep up indefinitely.
Liverpool’s aggression and high pressing were on full display as the match wore on. They were the more dangerous side from the start, forcing errors from the Spanish side, who couldn’t find their rhythm. Mac Allister’s goal came from a textbook set-piece, and despite another VAR check for offside, the goal stood, sending the crowd into raptures.
The significance of this victory can’t be understated. With Real Madrid struggling to mount a serious challenge, Liverpool’s quality, organisation, and aggressive intent were unmatched. This result wasn’t just about an individual victory over one of Europe’s giants; it was a statement of intent for Liverpool’s season. The intensity reminiscent of their finest moments under previous managers was back, and the return to form seemed solidified.
Off the pitch, there was drama, too. Trent Alexander-Arnold’s return to Anfield, after a summer of acrimony, saw him booed upon coming on as a substitute. A mural of the Liverpool right-back had even been vandalised earlier in the day. But despite this personal animosity, Liverpool’s focus remained on the pitch, and they were more than capable of handling any outside distractions.
With this win, Slot’s side set the tone for their upcoming fixtures. The road ahead is still long, but with performances like these, Liverpool’s title and European hopes remain very much alive.