Liverpool complete comeback to beat Atletico Madrid 2-1

Liverpool began their Champions League campaign with a 2-1 comeback victory over Atletico Madrid at Anfield on September 9, 2026.

Marcos Llorente gave Atletico the lead before Dominik Szoboszlai levelled for Liverpool. Alexis Mac Allister then completed the turnaround with a second-half winner to give the Reds a winning start in Europe.

Atletico strike first at Anfield

Liverpool were forced to respond after Llorente opened the scoring in the first half. The Atletico midfielder has developed a strong record at Anfield, with his latest goal taking his tally at the stadium to five in three games.

Llorente has previously enjoyed success against Liverpool at the famous venue, including when Atletico knocked the Reds out of the Champions League in 2020.

Liverpool did not allow the early setback to derail their night, however, and Szoboszlai brought them level before half-time.

Szoboszlai and Mac Allister turn the game around

Szoboszlai was named player of the match after scoring Liverpool’s equaliser and producing an energetic performance.

The Hungary international reflected on the response after the team had fallen behind, saying the players showed their ability to recover from a setback.

Liverpool then made a strong start to the second half, with Mac Allister producing the decisive moment.

The Argentine midfielder struck to put Liverpool ahead and complete the comeback. He later described the goal as a good hit and said he was pleased to score in a position from which he normally likes to shoot.

The victory also gave Mac Allister an opportunity to discuss his future at Liverpool, although he admitted he did not know whether he would receive a new contract.

Iraola praises Liverpool’s response

Liverpool manager Andoni Iraola was delighted with the character his side showed after conceding first.

He said it was difficult to ask for more from his players after they responded to a difficult start and praised the atmosphere inside Anfield.

Iraola also explained that Liverpool had struggled to match Atletico’s structure during the first half. Changes made at the interval helped his team become more compact and improve their energy after the break.

The Liverpool manager also acknowledged the quality of Diego Simeone’s Atletico side, describing them as a very good team that are comfortable in possession and difficult to press.

Liverpool make winning Champions League start

The 2-1 victory gives Liverpool a positive beginning to their Champions League campaign after a competitive encounter at Anfield.

Szoboszlai and Mac Allister provided the goals that overturned Llorente’s opener, while the home crowd played an important role as Liverpool recovered from the early setback.

Liverpool will now look to build on the result as their European campaign continues.

SportsLigue