Liverpool opened their UEFA Champions League league-phase campaign with a hard-earned 2-1 victory over Atlético Madrid at Anfield, overturning an early setback through goals from Dominik Szoboszlai and Alexis Mac Allister.
Atlético made the sharper start and took the lead in the 17th minute when Marcos Llorente found the net, silencing Anfield and giving the visitors the compact, counter-attacking platform they so often relish in European football.
Liverpool had to stay patient against Atlético’s disciplined shape, but their pressure eventually told before the interval. Szoboszlai struck in the 40th minute to level the match at 1-1, restoring the home side’s momentum after a first half in which they created the greater volume of opportunities.
The decisive moment arrived five minutes after the restart. Mac Allister, who had been booked in the 28th minute, stepped up with a goal in the 50th minute to complete Liverpool’s turnaround. The midfielder’s finish gave the hosts a lead they protected through a tense final spell.
Atlético controlled 54.8% of possession and registered four shots on target from nine attempts, but Liverpool were more threatening in the decisive areas. The Reds produced 14 shots, put five on target and won seven corners, underlining the sustained pressure that ultimately tilted the fixture their way.
There was still plenty of edge in the contest, with Liverpool committing 11 fouls to Atlético’s 10, while Atlético defender Marc Pubill was cautioned in the 51st minute shortly after Mac Allister’s winner. Liverpool saw out the closing stages to claim a valuable home result.
The night was not entirely without concern for the home support, however, with recent attention focused on Barcola after he limped out of his Liverpool home debut. On the pitch, though, Liverpool showed the resilience required for Champions League football: they absorbed an early blow, found their rhythm and took all three points at Anfield.
Goals: Marcos Llorente 17′ (Atlético Madrid); Dominik Szoboszlai 40′ (Liverpool); Alexis Mac Allister 50′ (Liverpool).
