Liverpool delivered a statement performance on Tuesday as they edged out Real Madrid 1-0 in a tightly contested UEFA Champions League fixture at Anfield. The decisive moment arrived in the 61st minute when Alexis Mac Allister met a sharply-whipped free-kick from Dominik Szoboszlai to head the winner past Thibaut Courtois.
Despite Real Madrid’s dominance in possession for large parts of the match, Liverpool’s intensity and defensive discipline proved the difference. The hosts pressed early and established control of the tempo, with Conor Bradley and Virgil van Dijk leading a resolute back-line that thwarted several of Madrid’s attacks.
The goal itself reflected Liverpool’s commitment to set-piece efficiency. Szoboszlai curled a fine delivery into the six-yard box, where Mac Allister met it with a thunderous header that left Courtois with no chance.
Real Madrid had their moments — Jude Bellingham came close, and Courtois produced crucial saves — but the visitors lacked the final cutting edge. Meanwhile, Liverpool’s attacking transitions, led by Mo Salah, Florian Wirtz and Szoboszlai, repeatedly placed Madrid under pressure.
Liverpool’s victory not only provides momentum but also boosts their Champions League credentials at a vital stage of the group phase. For Real Madrid, the loss signals a rare misstep and heightens pressure ahead of the next fixtures.
In a night defined by controlled aggression and tactical discipline, Liverpool reaffirmed their status as contenders in Europe’s premier club competition, while Real Madrid were left to reflect on their failure to convert dominance into results.
