Liverpool continued their impressive Champions League campaign on Wednesday, securing a 2-0 victory over title holders Real Madrid. This win marks the first team to reach the last 16, while Real Madrid slips to 24th in the table after their third defeat in five matches.
Under the new management of Arne Slot, Liverpool has been on fire, boasting 17 wins in 19 games. The decisive goals came from Alexis Mac Allister in the 52nd minute and Cody Gakpo in the 76th, following a stellar cross from Andrew Robertson. Despite Mohamed Salah missing a crucial penalty, Liverpool maintained control of the match.
Earlier, Real Madrid's star Kylian Mbappe had a penalty saved by Liverpool's Caoimhin Kelleher, showcasing the latter's skills in the absence of the injured Alisson Becker.
With this victory, Liverpool tops the table with 15 points. Meanwhile, an injury-ridden Real Madrid, missing key players like Vinicius Junior and Rodrygo, finds themselves just one spot above relegation.
\"Playing against a club that has won the Champions League multiple times and is the reigning champion is always special,\" said Slot, reflecting on the intense rivalry with Real Madrid, which has remained unbeaten in their eight previous meetings, including two Champions League finals in 2018 and 2022.
Reference(s):
Liverpool exact revenge on Real Madrid to advance in Champions League
cgtn.com
