Mac Allister’s header sinks Real Madrid as Anfield roars again

By Kazeem Ugbodaga

Liverpool secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Real Madrid in a pulsating UEFA Champions League clash at Anfield on Tuesday night, keeping their hopes alive.

Alexis Mac Allister proved to be the match-winner, rising highest in the 61st minute to nod home Dominik Szoboszlai’s teasing free kick from close range.

The goal, initially reviewed by VAR for a possible offside, stood after a tense delay, sending the Anfield crowd into wild celebrations.

Real Madrid, led by Kylian Mbappé and Vinícius Júnior, pushed hard for an equaliser but were repeatedly thwarted by Liverpool’s resilient defence marshalled by Virgil van Dijk and the outstanding goalkeeper Alisson Becker.

The visitors had a few clear chances, Mbappé coming closest in the 75th minute when his shot whistled just wide of the post, but Liverpool’s defensive discipline held firm until the final whistle.

Referee Istvan Kovacs had a busy night, dishing out several yellow cards, including to Real Madrid’s Jude Bellingham, Vinícius Júnior, and Alvaro Carreras, while Liverpool’s Mac Allister also found his name in the book for a tactical foul.

Late drama saw Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso booked for dissent in added time as frustration mounted for the Spanish giants.

Liverpool manager Arne Slot made clever substitutions, introducing Cody Gakpo and Federico Chiesa to inject fresh energy into the attack, while Real Madrid’s changes,  including Rodrygo and Brahim Díaz — could not alter the outcome.

The victory cements Liverpool’s strong position in the league phase standings and renews their confidence after a string of tight fixtures. Anfield, once again, proved to be a fortress under the lights.