In the opening match of the new Champions League season, Liverpool hosted Atletico Madrid at Anfield. In the end, thanks to a stoppage-time header from Virgil van Dijk, the Reds secured a thrilling 3-2 victory, laying a solid foundation for their European campaign.
Salah’s Quickfire Brace Gives Liverpool Dream Start
Just four minutes into the match, Liverpool earned a free kick in the attacking third. Mohamed Salah struck decisively, and the ball deflected off Andrew Robertson’s body into the net, giving the hosts an early lead.
Only two minutes later, Salah combined brilliantly with Ryan Gravenberch before calmly slotting the ball into the far corner, putting Liverpool 2-0 ahead by the sixth minute.
Llorente Strikes Twice as Atletico Fight Back
Despite their two-goal advantage, Liverpool wasted several chances to extend their lead. On the stroke of halftime, Giacomo Raspadori broke the offside trap and squared the ball across the box. Marcos Llorente, under pressure from multiple defenders, managed to poke it home, pulling one back for Atletico and making it 2-1.
In the 65th minute, Salah came close to restoring the cushion, but his powerful left-footed shot rattled the post. Atletico gradually took control of the tempo and equalised in the 81st minute.
Pablo Barrios’ effort from the left deflected off Ibrahima Konaté, and Llorente reacted quickly, smashing in a volley to make it 2-2.
Van Dijk’s Stoppage-Time Header Seals Dramatic Win
As the game seemed destined to end in a draw, Liverpool piled on the pressure with a series of corners in the final moments.
In the 92nd minute, Dominik Szoboszlai delivered a pinpoint cross, and Van Dijk rose above the defenders to head the ball into the net, giving Liverpool the decisive goal.
Liverpool eventually secured a 3-2 victory at home, claiming their first win of the Champions League season.
Slot Praises Isak’s Debut Performance
This match also marked the long-awaited debut of Premier League star Alexander Isak, who started and played 60 minutes.
Manager Arne Slot commented on his performance: “Physically, he looked in perfect shape, even though he didn’t complete a full pre-season. He clearly has the quality to play at this level. I wasn’t surprised by his performance, but he may actually be in better condition than I expected. ”
Simeone Sent Off After Clashing with Fans
Atletico manager Diego Simeone was sent off after clashing with Liverpool supporters following Van Dijk’s last-minute winner.
Simeone explained: “People talk about respect, but I was insulted from behind the whole match. As a coach, I cannot reply, and while my reaction is unjustified, 90 minutes of abuse is hard. The referee understood, and I hope Liverpool will discover the culprits.”
He added, “The insults went on all game, along with provocative gestures. I’m the one who needs to stay calm. I had to endure it.”
Reds Begin Their Campaign on a High
With the final whistle, Liverpool kicked off their Champions League season in style. Salah’s brilliance, Van Dijk’s last-gasp heroics, and Isak’s promising debut injected confidence into the squad.
Despite the heated scenes on the sidelines, the Reds defended their home ground and celebrated a winning start.
