Liverpool finally got their revenge! 🔥 The Reds secured a spectacular 2-0 victory over reigning champions Real Madrid on Wednesday, becoming the first team to reach the Champions League last 16. Anfield was buzzing as Liverpool maintained their perfect record in the competition. 🙌
Meanwhile, things aren't looking so great for Madrid. The defeat dropped them down to 24th in the table after suffering their third loss in five matches. Ouch! 😬
In the second half, Alexis Mac Allister broke the deadlock in the 52nd minute, sending fans into a frenzy. Then, Cody Gakpo sealed the deal in the 76th minute with a stunning header from Andrew Robertson's cross. 🎯 Mohamed Salah had a chance from the spot but fired wide. No worries, though—it didn't dampen the celebration! 🎉
Earlier in the match, French star Kylian Mbappé had an agonizing penalty miss after Lucas Vázquez was fouled by Robertson. Mbappé's shot was saved by Caoimhin Kelleher, who stepped up brilliantly in the absence of the injured Alisson Becker. 🧤
This win puts Liverpool back on top with 15 points! 💪 The injury-hit Madrid, missing key players like Vinícius Júnior, Rodrygo, Dani Carvajal, Éder Militão, Aurélien Tchouaméni, and David Alaba, slipped to just one place above relegation. Only the top 24 teams progress to the knockout stage, with the top eight going straight into the last 16. The pressure is on! 😱
\"You know how special it is to play against a club that won this Champions League so many times, are the reigning champions, and have been a real challenge for Liverpool many times as well,\" said manager Arne Slot. He was referring to Madrid's unbeaten record in their previous eight meetings, including two Champions League finals in 2018 and 2022. Well, the tables have turned! 😉
Reference(s):
Liverpool exact revenge on Real Madrid to advance in Champions League
cgtn.com
