Liverpool 2-0 Real Madrid: 5 Talking Points as Slot's men overpower Los Blancos | UEFA Champions League 2024-25

A penalty miss from Kylian Mbappe highlighted a drab afternoon for Real Madrid as they fell to a 2-0 defeat against Liverpool in the league phase of the Champions League on Wednesday, September 27. The Spanish giants' eight-game unbeaten streak against the Reds ended at Anfield.

Coming off a come-from-behind win over Southampton at the weekend, Slot decided to make two changes. Luis Diaz and Alexis Mac Allister returned to the lineup, replacing Cody Gakpo and Dominik Szoboszlai.

Real Madrid, meanwhile, were dealt a blow with Vinicius Jr suffering an injury leading up to the game. He was replaced by Brahim Diaz, who joined Kylian Mbappe, and Arda Guler in attack.

Darwin Nunez came close to breaking the deadlock in the first-half, forcing a sharp stop from Thibaut Courtois. At the other end, Real Madrid struggled to get going.

It was a great start to the second half for the hosts as Mac Allister scored in the 52nd minute after a sharp exchange with Conor Bradley to make it 1-0.

Nine minutes later, the visitors received a golden opportunity to level the scores as Lucas Vazquez was fouled by Andrew Robertson in the Reds' box. However, the resulting spot-kick taken by Mbappe was beaten away by Caoimhin Kelleher.

Mohamed Salah was unfortunate to return the favour a few minutes later. The Egyptian winger did well to earn the penalty, but completely missed the goal in what was a forgettable attempt.

However, Gakpo eventually put the result to bed. A great cross from Robertson found the Dutchman, who headed home in the 76th minute.

Carlo Ancelotti threw men forward in the hopes of salvaging a result, but the Merseysiders held firm to complete a brilliant victory. The result sees Liverpool hold the top spot and continue their perfect run, while Real Madrid currently find themselves in 24th place, occupying the last of the playoff places. Here are the talking points from the game:

Liverpool vs Real Madrid Talking Points

#5. The injuries begin to mount for Real Madrid

The Spanish giants headed into their pivotal clash against the Merseysiders already missing a bunch of important players. Headlined by talismanic attacker Vinicius Jr., they were also without Dani Carvajal, Eder Militao, and Aurelien Tchouameni. Eduardo Camavinga was subbed off with an injury in the second half, which could be a major cause for concern.

#4. Liverpool's fascinating attacking depth

Liverpool's attacking depth has been on display this season as their forwards have been impressive. While Salah is clearly the lead performer, having already collected 22 goal contributions this season, the likes of Luis Diaz, Diogo Jota, and Cody Gakpo have all chipped in. Further, the presence of Darwin Nunez and summer signing Federico Chiesa offers more options for Arne Slot.

#3. Kylian Mbappe's frustrations continue

Having completed his dream move to the Santiago Bernabeu this summer, the Frenchman has had almost a nightmarish start to his tenure in Spain. He has caught flak for his performances, collecting nine goals and two assists in 18 games this season. His penalty miss against the Reds is sure to compound woes as Los Blancos find themselves in a precarious position in the Champions League.

#2. Real Madrid need to solve issues quickly

A disappointing start to the season could become worse quickly if Ancelotti's side do not figure things out quickly. With just six points from their five games in the UCL, they need a slew of good results to secure qualification. They are also four points off Barcelona in La Liga (with a game in hand) and need some inspired performances.

#1. Arne Slot and his Liverpool juggernaut

Arne Slot has exceeded all expectations in his first season as Liverpool manager. The side have been immense, particularly in Europe, winning all five of their games and conceding just once. They are also already eight points clear at the top of the Premier League and could make this 2024-25 campaign one for the history books.