All eyes were on Trent Alexander-Arnold as he returned to Anfield for the first time since joining Real Madrid from Liverpool in the summer.
The 26-year-old’s controversial free transfer to the Spanish giants demonized him in the eyes of Liverpool fans, many of whom felt betrayed by the manner in which he left his boyhood club.
As expected, the reception was intensely hostile. The former Reds star was booed before kick-off and jeered throughout his short stay on the pitch, in stark contrast to the heroic reception he previously received at Anfield.
Mac Allister scores the winning goal as Liverpool overwhelm Real Madrid
Despite a recent dip in form, winning just two of their last eight games, Liverpool looked rejuvenated and sharp, outscoring Real Madrid in every department.
Arne Slott’s side controlled possession and intensity, with Dominik Szoboszlai, Alexis Mac Allister and Ryan Gravenbirch commanding the midfield.
The home side created several chances and could have taken the lead sooner had it not been for an inspired performance from Thibaut Courtois, who once again frustrated Liverpool with a string of world-class saves.
In the second half, a breakthrough finally appeared. Szoboszlai’s pinpoint free-kick found Mac Allister to head past Courtois to give Liverpool a 1-0 lead.
The World Cup winner’s goal celebration immediately caught the attention of fans online.
Fans react to Mac Allister appearing to mock Alexander-Arnold
This goal ended up being the winning goal for the Reds.
Fans quickly noticed the World Cup winner cheekily trolling former teammate Trent Alexander-Arnold by grinning and miming his celebration.
One fan wrote, “Makka is smiling!”
Another wrote: “Please inject this into my vein.”
Another wrote: “Just a friendly joke but they are such good mates.”
A fourth said: “First class savagery”.
However, others suggested that the Argentine player may be paying homage to Diogo Jota, who held the same celebration in the past.
In any case, this goal was decisive and Liverpool won 1-0 against Real Madrid, marking their second consecutive win against the Spanish team and Mac Allister scoring against Real Madrid for the second consecutive season.
Arne Slott finds his rhythm again at Liverpool
After weeks of inconsistency, Arne Slot appears to have found a balance that works.
Rather than experimenting with new shapes or systems, the Liverpool manager appears to have gone back to the tactical basics that served him so well last season.
The attack was once again more fluid with Salah being more involved than in recent matches.
They won 2-0 against Aston Villa, followed by an important win against Real Madrid.
Next up is Manchester City away at Etihad Airways. A win there could be the perfect demonstration that Liverpool remain a major threat.
