Mac Allister heads Liverpool to win over Madrid

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On November 4, 2025, Liverpool secured a crucial 1-0 victory over Real Madrid in a UEFA Champions League group stage match at Anfield, ending Madrid’s previously perfect record in the competition this season. The winning goal came in the 61st minute when Argentina international Alexis Mac Allister scored with a decisive header, capping off a dominant second-half performance by Liverpool. This goal broke through the resilient defense led by Real goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois, who had kept his team in the game with a series of impressive saves. Liverpool's victory marked back-to-back wins for the first time since late September, boosting them into sixth place in the group and setting an encouraging tone ahead of their upcoming Premier League match against Manchester City.

Liverpool’s win was notable for the team’s improved performance and sharp attitude, surpassing the significance of their prior 2-0 home victory over a weakened Real Madrid side last year. This time, they defeated a much stronger Madrid team, almost at full strength except for a few key absences such as Alexander Isak and first-choice goalkeeper Alisson Becker. Despite the interim absence of some key Madrid players, Liverpool’s tactical dominance was evident as they coordinated overloads in multiple areas of the pitch, pressing Madrid effectively and controlling possession with urgency and precision.

Real Madrid’s chances were further undermined by a VAR review that overturned a potential first-half penalty for Liverpool, which initially appeared to stem from an Aurélien Tchouaméni handball inside the box but was ultimately not given. Despite this setback, Liverpool’s defensive organization frustrated Madrid’s attempts to create clear scoring opportunities. Notably, Liverpool’s new signing Florian Wirtz, valued at £100 million, showed signs of finally settling into the side, complementing Mac Allister’s creative influence.

The match showcased Liverpool’s tactical maturity and resilience, highlighted by effective defensive work from the backline and dynamic attacking interplay, especially after halftime. This win not only derailed Madrid’s momentum in the group but also reaffirmed Liverpool’s ambitions to advance strongly in the Champions League this season.