Van Dijk’s last-gasp header explodes Anfield as Liverpool stun Atletico in thriller

By Kazeem Ugbodaga

Liverpool eked out a thrilling 3-2 victory over Atlético Madrid at Anfield in their opening group stage match of the Champions League, thanks to a 92nd-minute header by captain Virgil van Dijk.

The win restores belief among the Reds and underscores their fighting spirit under their new managerial regime.

The match got off to a lightning-fast start. Liverpool struck twice in the first six minutes, with Andy Robertson diverting in a cross and Mohamed Salah following up shortly after to double the lead. It was reportedly the quickest Liverpool have ever gone two goals up in a European fixture.

However, Atlético Madrid, under Diego Simeone, refused to lie down. Marcos Llorente pulled one back just before half-time and then struck again in the 81st minute to level the score. The game swung wildly, with Liverpool having to contend with mounting pressure.

The turning point came deep into stoppage time. From a corner, van Dijk met the ball with power and precision, heading in the winner that left the home crowd roaring. The goal came amid chaotic scenes and controversy.

Atlético were denied what they believed to be a penalty earlier, only for a VAR review to disallow it, adding to the tension.

Beyond the scoreline, the match carried additional historical relevance for Salah. He made club records, including extending a run of consecutive scoring in Liverpool matches.

Although Alexander Isak made his debut for Liverpool and drew attention, many pundits noted he appeared short of match fitness, a factor that saw him substituted in the second half.

Atlético, meanwhile, adopted a defensive 4-4-2 shape but were undone by Liverpool’s early assault and late resolve.

This win gives Liverpool a promising start to their European campaign, securing three points and consolidating confidence.