Finally, it is necessary to combine three Liverpool stars to break Real Madrid's resilient defense. The Premier League champions have struggled to find the decisive goal during more than an hour of play at Anfield in the UEFA Champions League. However, every chance was blocked by Thibaut Courtois' miraculous performance in Madrid's goal.
But right when all hope seemed extinguished, Ryan Gravenberch won a free kick in an extremely dangerous position right in the penalty area. And Dominik Szoboszlai with his delicate pass has put Alexis Mac Allister in the perfect position. The Argentine midfielder skillfully headed the ball, overcoming Courtois, giving the home team 3 valuable points at Anfield.
This goal became the decisive moment, helping Liverpool win 1-0, climbing to the top 8 teams in the Champions League rankings. After a difficult run of six defeats in their last seven games in all competitions, the win over the top team La Liga was the second time in a few days that The Kop have smiled. They beat Aston Villa 2-0 in the Premier League.
The common point in both matches is the strong return of the three Premier League champions midfielders last season: Gravenberch, Szoboszlai and Mac Allister. All three played impressively, as arrangers bringing Liverpool back to the winning track.
The combination of this trio to score the decisive goal against Xabi Alonso's team is completely deserved. Their skills and diligence are perhaps the most important factor in Liverpool's strong revival.
After a much of the season of unbalanced play, the "Red Brigade" has now become much more solid, with the attack rebuilt. Meanwhile, £100 million rookie Florian Wirtz also played impressively against Real Madrid.
"In midfield, Liverpool played great. The trio of Mac Allister, Gravenberch and Szoboszlai are excellent. Szoboszlai played at world level in the first half, and in my opinion, Arne Slot made 100% accurate decisions. No one expected him to let Wirtz play on the left.
He chose the right position to connect everything. That is Liverpool's dream land" - former Liverpool defender Steve Nicol commented.
After months of testing the squad, it seems Slot has finally returned to the winning formula from last season. But the question is why did the Liverpool captain spend so much time returning to the basics?
Is returning to a more familiar midfield the key to saving The Kop's season?
Of course, Liverpool still have a lot of work to do to prove they are truly back. The win over Madrid was an important affirmation, but it would all be meaningless if Slot's side failed to replicate that form against Manchester City.
With an impressive performance in midweek, it would be no surprise if Slot kept the same starting lineup at the Etihad. Gravenberch, Szoboszlai and Mac Allister - who played brilliantly against The Citizens last season - are still Liverpool's hopes.
"I'm not sure if I should focus too much on this midfield trio. In fact, I haven't been able to let them play together many times this season. And the reason is obvious - mainly injuries.
Not only sometimes in midfield, but also in other positions on the pitch. That is why I need Dominik to be able to play in many different positions. It would be very helpful if the team plays more together" - Slot said.
