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Liverpool overturned an early deficit to beat Atlético Madrid 2-1 at Anfield on Wednesday, giving Andoni Iraola his first Champions League victory as the club’s new manager.
Marcos Llorente silenced Anfield after 17 minutes when he raced onto Julián Álvarez’s pass and lifted the ball over Alisson Becker. It was Llorente’s fifth Champions League goal against Liverpool, all of them scored at Anfield.
Liverpool, however, refused to allow Atlético’s early advantage to dictate the night. Dominik Szoboszlai restored parity five minutes before half-time, finishing after Ronald Araujo’s clever flick had opened the way for the Hungarian midfielder to beat Jan Oblak.
The turnaround was completed five minutes after the restart, and Mac Allister provided the moment that changed the game. Rio Ngumoha’s movement and cross created a loose ball outside the box, which fell to the Argentine midfielder. Mac Allister took one touch before driving a powerful left-footed effort into the far corner.
The goal carried added significance for Mac Allister, who had spoken before the match about his disappointment at not receiving a new contract while teammates Dominik Szoboszlai and Ryan Gravenberch had recently agreed extensions. Rather than allow the issue to overshadow his performance, the midfielder answered with the winning goal.
For Iraola, the victory was also a test of his ability to react when a Champions League opponent disrupted Liverpool’s plans. Atlético’s decision to use a 3-5-2 system initially unsettled the hosts, with the Spanish side finding space behind Liverpool’s defence.
“I have to blame myself a bit for the start of the game,” Iraola admitted, acknowledging that Atlético had surprised Liverpool with their approach. He added that his players adjusted, improved after the break and showed character to complete the comeback.
Liverpool had opportunities to extend their lead, while Atlético pushed for an equaliser. Alexander Isak saw an effort blocked, and Jeremie Frimpong had a late goal ruled out for offside, but Iraola’s side held on to secure three points.
Bradley Barcola, making his first Liverpool start after his move from Paris Saint-Germain, was lively but missed opportunities before being withdrawn in the second half. Iraola later indicated that the winger’s problem was cramp rather than a serious injury.
The result gives Liverpool a winning start to the Champions League league phase and continues Iraola’s unbeaten beginning at Anfield. The Reds had recorded their first competitive victory under the Spaniard four days earlier with a 2-0 win over Ipswich Town.
