Alexis Mac Allister praises Liverpool mentality after Atletico Madrid comeback

Alexis Mac Allister praised Liverpool’s mentality and determination after they came from behind to beat Atletico Madrid 2-1 in their opening Champions League league-phase match, while admitting he does not know whether he will sign a new contract with the club.

Liverpool conceded first but turned the game around to begin their European campaign with victory. Mac Allister said the players’ response, together with the support from the Anfield crowd, highlighted the character within the team.

“It was a good comeback. I think the first half was very good,” Mac Allister told TNT Sports.

Liverpool had controlled much of the opening period before Atletico Madrid took advantage of a defensive lapse. Mac Allister acknowledged that the goal came after his side failed to deal properly with the situation, although he felt the overall quality of Liverpool’s display remained strong.

“We conceded a goal because we were not ready and we did not defend well, but apart from that we had a good first half,” he said.

The midfielder was also pleased with the way Liverpool started the second half. They quickly regained momentum and went on to score the decisive goal, completing the turnaround against the Spanish side.

“The beginning of the second half was very good. We managed to score the second goal, and that was good,” Mac Allister added.

Liverpool’s performance was shaped by their reaction after falling behind, with Mac Allister saying the team had discussed the importance of making positive starts to both halves before kick-off.

“Overall, it was a good performance. Now we have to think about the next game,” he said.

“We spoke before the game about the start of the first half and the second half. I liked the mentality of the team.”

Mac Allister also highlighted the contribution of the home supporters, who responded to Liverpool’s effort by creating a stronger atmosphere at Anfield.

“I think we showed a lot of desire today and made the fans get behind us, which is very important when you play at Anfield. It is a positive step for us,” he said.

The Argentina international was then asked whether he expected to agree a contract extension with Liverpool in the near future. His response was brief: “I don’t know, we will see.”

Liverpool’s next Champions League fixture is against Austrian club LASK on 14 October. Atletico Madrid will face Manchester United on 13 October in the same competition round.

The Champions League league phase features 36 teams, with each club playing eight matches. The eight highest-ranked teams in the table will qualify directly for the last 16.

Teams finishing from ninth to 16th will instead enter a play-off for a place in the knockout stage.