Mac Allister's 61st-minute goal helped Liverpool beat Real Madrid 1-0, in the fourth round of the UEFA Champions League group stage. This is the second consecutive victory in a few days for the Reds. They have previously beaten Aston Villa 2-0 in the Premier League.
This is an impressive win for Liverpool, because we had to face a team in unbelievable form - having lost just once, winning all the remaining matches since the beginning of the season. If you can beat them, and with the current performance, that is a very positive thing.
But beyond all we can say, we beat them with a set piece. It would be easier to talk about it if you win, because if you lose, people will think about it and I will try to find an excuse, said coach Arne Slot after the match.
Post-match statistics showed that Liverpool overwhelmed Real Madrid with 17 shots, 9 of which were on target. Meanwhile, Real Madrid only had 8 shots, 2 of which were on target. Goalkeeper Courtois made 8 saves at Anfield but could not help the home team keep a clean sheet.
I think this was a good match for a really strong team. This was an important victory for Liverpool, but we know it does not mean anything because of the experience from last season when we were first in the group stage but were then eliminated early. So we need to continue to move forward, I think the important thing is to build confidence. Today is a good day, we deserved to win, said midfielder Mac Allister.
Meanwhile, coach Xabi Alonso said that Real Madrid played well, but lacked innovation and sharpness in Liverpool's half. He said: "It was a difficult match, with a very fast pace. We played well but lacked really dangerous attacks. The first half was quite balanced and the second half was decided by small moments".
Meanwhile, goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois pointed out part of the reason for Real Madrid's loss. He shared: "It's a pity that with this result, I tried to keep Real strong. I think we made too many mistakes near the penalty area in the second half, Liverpool played well from set pieces and that was the reason their goal came.
