Liverpool delivered a heart-stopping performance at Anfield on Wednesday, clinching a 3-2 win against Atletico Madrid in their UEFA Champions League opener. Captain Virgil van Dijk became the hero of the night, heading in a decisive goal during stoppage time to seal the victory.
The Reds stormed ahead early, with Andy Robertson deflecting Mohamed Salah’s free kick into the net within three minutes. Salah doubled the lead moments later, electrifying the home crowd. However, Atletico’s Marcos Llorente—haunting Liverpool with a brace reminiscent of his 2020 Champions League performance—leveled the score before halftime.
Liverpool’s trademark late-game resilience shone through once again. Van Dijk’s 93rd-minute header secured three points, extending the team’s streak of stoppage-time goals this season. The dramatic finish saw Atletico coach Diego Simeone receive a second yellow card during post-goal celebrations.
Manager Arne Slot, celebrating his 47th birthday, praised his squad: "The players gave me a nice present… but I’d ask UEFA if next year I can celebrate with family instead!" The victory marks a strong start for Liverpool in Europe’s premier club competition.
