Alexis Mac Allister’s crucial header, assisted by a superb Dominik Szoboszlai, secured a hard-fought Champions League victory for Liverpool over Real Madrid, despite Thibaut Courtois’ heroics in goal.
Liverpool Player Ratings
Giorgi Mamardashvili: (7/10)
The goalkeeper had a stable evening, demonstrating assurance whenever called upon. He commanded his box effectively and handled the rare shots that tested him with good control, ensuring no unnecessary danger arose during Real Madrid’s late attempts to find an equaliser.
Conor Bradley: (8.5/10)
A truly outstanding performance at right-back. Bradley was immense in his defensive duties, notably in his handling of Vinícius Júnior, and his constant high-intensity pressing forced errors. He showed fantastic discipline and proved to be an invaluable outlet on the right flank throughout the 90 minutes.
Ibrahima Konaté: (8/10)
The central defender was physically dominant, winning key headers and ground duels. Konaté’s speed allowed Liverpool to maintain a high defensive line, and his strong partnership with the captain ensured that the world-class Real Madrid attack, including Kylian Mbappé, was largely contained.
Virgil van Dijk: (7.5/10)
The skipper was the embodiment of composure and organization. Van Dijk led by example, using his superior positional sense to cut out dangerous passes and launch attacks from deep. He was crucial in managing the game’s tempo in the face of mounting pressure late on.
Andy Robertson: (7/10)
A reliable presence on the left side of the defence. Robertson’s relentless engine kept him active in both phases of play, offering width in attack and tracking back diligently. His defensive solidity was a key factor in keeping a clean sheet against the European giants.
Dominik Szoboszlai: (8.5/10)
Operating in a central role, Szoboszlai’s energy was infectious. He was highly involved in transition and his excellent delivery from the set-piece led directly to the decisive goal. His dynamic running was vital in disrupting Madrid’s midfield rhythm, even receiving a late booking for his efforts.
Ryan Gravenberch: (7/10)
A good display of control and physical power in the heart of the pitch. Gravenberch maintained possession well and demonstrated tenacity in the challenge. He played a crucial role in the central midfield battle, showing maturity against experienced opposition.
Alexis Mac Allister: (9/10)
Man of the Match. The Argentine delivered the moment of brilliance, rising highest to power home the winning header in the 61st minute. Beyond the goal, he was outstanding in his distribution, pressing intensity, and tactical discipline, making him the most influential player on the field.
Mohamed Salah: (7/10)
The Egyptian King was a persistent threat, showcasing moments of dazzling skill and link-up play. He was instrumental in creating the late chance for Cody Gakpo that was narrowly blocked, proving to be the focal point of Liverpool’s counter-attacks.
Florian Wirtz: (7.5/10)
The attacker showed glimpses of his creative potential, working hard off the ball to press the Madrid backline. While he didn’t have a defining attacking moment, his willingness to engage and track back added balance to the forward line before his substitution.
Hugo Ekitike: (6/10)
Led the line with effort, constantly moving to stretch the opposition defence. Ekitike’s hold-up play was satisfactory, creating space for the wide players, though he lacked the clinical edge to convert the chances that came his way before being replaced by Cody Gakpo.