Klopp’s side delivers a dazzling 2-0 victory, preserving their perfect record in Europe’s elite competition.
Liverpool shattered their long-standing curse against Real Madrid in a pulsating Champions League encounter at Anfield, claiming a decisive 2-0 victory that extended their unbeaten streak in the group stage. Jürgen Klopp’s men were relentless from the start, displaying pace, precision, and a hunger that has eluded them in recent meetings with the Spanish giants.
The electric atmosphere at Anfield set the stage for what became an unforgettable night. Liverpool, who have struggled to overcome Real Madrid in recent years, including painful defeats in two Champions League finals, finally turned the tide. From the opening whistle, they pressed with ferocity, seizing control of the game and refusing to let their opponents settle.
The breakthrough came midway through the first half when Mohamed Salah, in imperious form, latched onto a perfectly weighted pass from Dominik Szoboszlai. Salah’s deft touch wrong-footed the Real Madrid defence, and with ice-cold composure, he slotted the ball past goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois, sending the Anfield faithful into rapturous celebration.
Real Madrid, despite their pedigree, struggled to match Liverpool’s intensity. Carlo Ancelotti’s side, known for their ability to navigate high-pressure European nights, found themselves on the back foot for much of the contest. Vinícius Júnior and Rodrygo attempted to carve out chances, but Liverpool’s defence, marshalled expertly by Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konaté, stood firm.
The second half saw Liverpool continue to dominate possession, with their midfield trio of Alexis Mac Allister, Szoboszlai, and Curtis Jones dictating the tempo. Real Madrid, desperate to claw their way back, left gaps at the back, and Liverpool took full advantage.
In the 72nd minute, Darwin Núñez delivered the coup de grâce. A quick counter-attack saw Salah play a clever through-ball into the Uruguayan’s path. Núñez, with blistering speed, outpaced Éder Militão and fired a thunderous strike into the top corner, sealing the win and sending Anfield into delirium once more.
Real Madrid attempted a late rally, bringing on experienced heads like Luka Modrić and Toni Kroos, but Liverpool remained resolute. Alisson Becker made a stunning save in the dying minutes to deny Jude Bellingham’s curling effort, preserving the clean sheet and ensuring victory.
The result was significant not just for the points, but for the psychological edge it gave Liverpool. After years of frustration against Real Madrid, including heart-wrenching losses in the 2018 and 2022 finals, this triumph felt like vindication. Klopp’s men demonstrated a blend of tactical nous, individual brilliance, and collective desire that marked them as serious contenders for the Champions League crown.
In his post-match interview, Klopp was full of praise for his team. “We knew we had to be at our very best tonight, and the boys delivered,” he said. “Real Madrid are a fantastic side, but tonight we showed the power of Anfield, the power of this team, and the power of belief.”
Real Madrid’s Ancelotti was gracious in defeat, acknowledging Liverpool’s superiority on the night. “They were the better team. We were second best in key moments, and they punished us,” he admitted. “We have to learn from this and move forward.”
With this win, Liverpool maintained their perfect record in the group stage, topping the table with a sense of invincibility. For the Reds, the victory was more than just three points—it was a long-awaited exorcism of their Real Madrid demons.