Liverpool rally past Atletico Madrid to claim first Champions League win

Liverpool came from behind to beat Atletico Madrid 2-1 at Anfield and secure their first victory in the league phase of this season’s Champions League.

The home side fell behind in the 18th minute when Marcos Llorente produced an excellent finish after being played in by Julian Alvarez. Atletico Madrid then defended resolutely as Liverpool took control of possession and searched for a response.

Liverpool’s pressure eventually brought an equaliser five minutes before half-time. Dominik Szoboszlai converted with a shot after a fine backheel pass from Ronald Araujo, bringing the score level at 1-1.

The hosts completed the turnaround shortly after the interval. Alexis Mac Allister scored in the 50th minute to put Liverpool ahead and shift the momentum firmly in their favour.

Atletico Madrid pushed for another equaliser after Mac Allister’s goal, but Liverpool held on to their advantage. Frimpong appeared to add a third goal in the 89th minute, only for the effort to be ruled out for offside.

The result means Liverpool began their Champions League league-phase campaign with a win after recovering from an early setback at Anfield. Atletico Madrid, meanwhile, were unable to protect the lead provided by Llorente and left without a point.

Liverpool’s next match in the competition will be against Austrian side LASK on 14 October. Atletico Madrid will face Manchester United on 13 October in another fixture from the same league-phase round.

The Champions League league phase features 36 teams, with each club scheduled to play eight matches. The teams are ranked in a single table rather than being divided into traditional groups.

The top eight sides in the final standings will qualify directly for the last 16. Teams finishing from ninth to 16th will enter a play-off round for a place in the knockout stage.