On November 27, Liverpool confirmed their position as one of Europe’s most dominant forces this season with a commanding 2-0 victory over Real Madrid in the Champions League’s fifth round. The Reds, powered by a strong team performance and clinical finishing, handed a wounded Real Madrid yet another setback, leaving the Spanish giants with serious questions to answer.
Liverpool were electric from the start, with the ever-dangerous attacking trio creating problems for Madrid’s defense. However, it was Thibaut Courtois who kept the Merengues in the game with a series of key saves, particularly denying Cody Gakpo in the 23rd minute and Alexis Mac Allister in the 51st. Despite Courtois’ heroics, Real Madrid’s frailties were laid bare as Liverpool took control after the break.
The deadlock was finally broken in the 52nd minute, when Mac Allister calmly slotted home after a neat team move. The goal seemed to break Madrid’s resolve, but it was not until the 76th minute that Liverpool put the game beyond doubt. Gakpo, who had been a constant menace, found the back of the net, ensuring the points were secured for the home side.
While Liverpool were clinical in attack, Real Madrid’s night was plagued with missed opportunities and injuries. The most glaring moment came in the 61st minute when Kylian Mbappé, the man expected to step up in the absence of Vinícius Júnior and Rodrygo, saw his penalty saved by Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson. The Frenchman, playing in his preferred left-wing role, had a rare chance to reignite Madrid’s hopes, but his failure from the spot proved costly.
Things went from bad to worse for Madrid as Ferland Mendy’s careless foul in the penalty area led to another penalty for Liverpool in the 70th minute. Mohamed Salah, usually reliable from the spot, also missed his attempt, but unlike Mbappé, the consequences of Salah’s miss were far less significant. With Real Madrid struggling to break down Liverpool’s resolute defense, the match was effectively over.
Eduardo Camavinga, who had been Madrid’s standout performer in the first half, was forced to leave the pitch due to injury just after the hour mark, further depleting Madrid’s already thin squad. His absence only highlighted the lack of cohesion and resilience in Carlo Ancelotti’s side, which has now suffered three losses in their last five European matches.
For Real Madrid, this defeat marks another setback in a season already full of challenges. With just six points from their five group-stage matches, they are now in serious danger of failing to advance to the knockout rounds. The loss also represents a troubling trend for the club, as they have now conceded three goals in consecutive matches against Barcelona and Liverpool. Their defensive fragility and inability to capitalize on key moments have been exposed on the biggest stage, and Ancelotti will be left searching for answers.
Liverpool, on the other hand, continue to shine in Europe. Their flawless performance against the reigning European champions solidifies their place as one of the favorites for this year’s competition. With Mac Allister and Gakpo continuing to shine, the Reds look set to make a deep run in the Champions League.
As for Real Madrid, the pressure is mounting. A squad that once prided itself on its invincibility is now staring at the very real possibility of an early exit from the tournament. Mbappé, who was expected to lead the line in the absence of Vinícius and Rodrygo, left Anfield without leaving much of an impression, with the penalty miss serving as a bitter reminder of Madrid’s struggles in the crucial moments.
The defeat at Anfield is a wake-up call for the Merengues. With a lot to fix before their next Champions League clash, it remains to be seen whether Carlo Ancelotti’s men can turn their fortunes around. For now, Liverpool’s triumph serves as a reminder of the ruthlessness and quality that has defined their season so far, as they continue to prove themselves as one of the best teams in Europe.
