Liverpool player who wowed Thierry Henry is crucial to repeating Real Madrid heroics

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In November 2024, Liverpool’s 2-0 victory over Real Madrid strengthened their chances of reaching the Champions League knockout stages. Credit: ImagoConor Bradley vs Vinicius JuniorWhen the Reds secured a statement win over Real Madrid at Anfield last year, Conor Bradley received huge plaudits for shutting down Kylian Mbappe while providing the assist for Alexis Mac Allister’s goal.Bradley held his own against one of the best players on the planet with some incredible last-ditch tackles and impressive defensive awareness.

The Brazilian missed the clash against Liverpool last year, but arrives at Anfield in red-hot form with nine goal involvements in La Liga, although he’s yet to score or assist in the Champions League this term.Thierry Henry was wowed by Bradley vs Real MadridBradley’s battle with Vini Jr holds the key to his side’s chances of securing victory, and he’ll need to be at his best to shut down the 25-year-old. When Bradley pocketed Mbappe last year, Thierry Henry was impressed by the youngster, labelling his performance as ‘outstanding’.“That (tackle), for me, already did set the tone,” Henry said.

You could see, he fancied himself against Mbappe. I think he didn’t have to do a lot defensively because Mbappe didn’t do a lot offensively, so it became very easy.“Bradley has struggled for Liverpool at the start of this campaign, but he will have fire in his belly to prove he belongs on the biggest stage.