A dramatic clash at Anfield left Real Madrid stunned and Liverpool celebrating a crucial victory. The Reds' 1-0 win on November 5, 2025, ended Madrid's perfect Champions League run, and it was a night of mixed emotions for both sides.
Alexis Mac Allister's header in the second half sealed the deal, showcasing Liverpool's dominance. This win was especially sweet, considering their recent struggles, having suffered six defeats in seven matches. But the real story here is how they overcame a formidable opponent.
Liverpool's triumph was made even more impressive by the fact that Real Madrid, boasting a £100 million signing in Florian Wirtz, were at full strength. In contrast, Liverpool were missing key players, including the British record signing Alexander Isak, first-choice goalkeeper Alisson Becker, and the £40 million full-back Jeremie Frimpong.
The game's turning point came in the 61st minute when Mac Allister broke through Thibaut Courtois' staunch defense. But the controversy began earlier with a first-half free kick for a handball by Aurélien Tchouaméni, which was ruled out by VAR. Liverpool's persistence paid off as Mac Allister headed in a free-kick, unmarked.
And here's where it gets personal... The returning Trent Alexander-Arnold faced a hostile reception, with boos and jeers greeting his arrival in the 81st minute. The crowd's choice to sing the name of Steven Gerrard, a former Liverpool player who left the club, was a clear message to Alexander-Arnold.
The drama escalated as the mural of Alexander-Arnold nearby was vandalized with derogatory messages, requiring a clean-up before the match. But the main event was on the pitch, where Conor Bradley, Alexander-Arnold's replacement, clashed with Vinícius Júnior, who was visibly agitated.
Real Madrid's star-studded attack was neutralized by the familiar figure of Courtois, who had dashed Liverpool's hopes in the 2022 final. He made crucial saves, including a point-blank range stop with his leg. However, Liverpool's pressure paid off, and Mac Allister's header proved too powerful for the goalkeeper.
Kylian Mbappé, usually a goal-scoring machine, struggled to make an impact, ballooning his only shot. As the game intensified, Liverpool held on, and Courtois' heroics couldn't prevent the defeat.
This victory propelled Liverpool to sixth place, level on points with Madrid, who surprisingly failed to find the net. A statement win for Liverpool, but will they be able to maintain this form? And what's your take on Alexander-Arnold's treatment by the fans? Was it justified, or did it cross the line?
