Liverpool vs Real Madrid Match Recap - Nov 4, 2025

Liverpool Shocks Real Madrid with a 1-0 Victory at Anfield

Liverpool delivered a stunning performance, defeating Real Madrid 1-0 at Anfield, a result that reverberates through the UEFA Champions League standings. The match was defined by a second-half goal from Alexis Mac Allister, who struck in the 61st minute, capitalizing on a moment of defensive disarray from the visitors. This victory marks a significant turnaround for Liverpool, who had been struggling in recent weeks, and it raises questions about Real Madrid's invincibility.

Liverpool entered this match with a mixed bag of results, sitting in 10th place in their group with just 6 points from three matches. Their recent form included a disappointing 0-3 loss to Crystal Palace and narrow defeats against Brentford and Manchester United. However, they found their rhythm against Aston Villa just days prior, winning 2-0 and showcasing the attacking prowess of Mohamed Salah and Ryan Gravenberch. The confidence gained from that victory proved crucial as they faced a formidable opponent in Real Madrid.

Real Madrid, on the other hand, arrived at Anfield riding high on a wave of success, boasting three consecutive wins in the Champions League and La Liga. With Kylian Mbappé in sensational form, having scored multiple goals in recent matches, they were expected to dominate. Yet, Liverpool's defense held firm, stifling the threats posed by Mbappé and Vinícius Júnior throughout the match.

The first half saw Real Madrid control possession, holding 61% of the ball and completing 271 passes compared to Liverpool's 169. Despite this dominance, they struggled to create clear-cut chances, managing only four total shots with just one on target. Liverpool's defense, led by Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konaté, effectively neutralized Madrid's attacking threats. The home side's resilience was evident as they absorbed pressure while looking for opportunities to counterattack.

The turning point came in the second half when Liverpool began to assert themselves more offensively. After a series of missed chances, Mac Allister found the breakthrough. His goal not only lifted the spirits of the home crowd but also shifted the momentum of the match. Liverpool's expected goals (xG) of 0.70 indicated they were creating more meaningful opportunities than their opponents, who managed an xG of just 0.11.

Real Madrid's response was lackluster. Despite their attacking talent, they failed to register a single shot on target after conceding the goal. The substitutions made by coach Xabier Alonso Olano, including bringing on Rodrygo and Endrick, did little to change the tide. Liverpool's defense remained resolute, and goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili made crucial saves when called upon.

The match statistics tell a compelling story: Liverpool had eight total shots compared to Real Madrid's four, and while they struggled with possession, their efficiency in front of goal proved decisive. The home side's ability to capitalize on their limited chances contrasted sharply with Madrid's inability to convert their dominance into goals.

This result has significant implications for both teams moving forward. For Liverpool, it represents a much-needed boost in confidence as they look to climb the standings in the Champions League and regain their form in domestic competitions. The victory could serve as a catalyst for a resurgence after a rocky start to the season.

Conversely, Real Madrid must reflect on this defeat as a wake-up call. Despite their strong start to the season, this loss exposes vulnerabilities that could be exploited by future opponents. The reliance on individual brilliance from players like Mbappé may not be enough if the team cannot find cohesion and creativity in their attacking play.

As for my pre-match prediction, I anticipated a closely contested battle but underestimated Liverpool's ability to rise to the occasion at home. This match serves as a reminder that football is often unpredictable; even giants can stumble when faced with determined opposition.

Looking ahead, Liverpool will face PSV Eindhoven next, while Real Madrid will travel to take on Olympiakos Piraeus. Both teams have much to prove as they navigate the remainder of the group stage. For now, though, Liverpool can savor this hard-fought victory over one of Europe's elite clubs-a moment that will surely be etched into the memories of their passionate supporters.