Liverpool got the better of Atletico Madrid in a dramatic UEFA Champions League group stage clash held at Anfield on Wednesday, September 17. Arne Slot's side claimed a 3-2 win against Atletico Madrid. The clash marked Matchday 1 of the 2025-26 UEFA Champions League campaign.
Andrew Robertson set the tempo of the game with a goal in the fourth minute, followed by Mohamed Salah's banger goal doubling Liverpool's lead in the sixth minute. Atletico remained determined though, struck back through Marcos Llorente who scored deep into first-half stoppage time (45+3) and sparked the hopes of a comeback with his second goal in the 81st minute of the match.
Virgil Van Vijk led from the front for Liverpool, scoring a dramatic late winner in injury time to secure a 3-2 win over Atletico Madrid.
Liverpool's dominance
Despite resilience from the visitors, Liverpool held on thanks to dominating play throughout the match. The Reds dominated possession with 57%, completed 589 passes at 89% accuracy, and registered 20 shots (with 6 on target).
On the other hand, Atletico Madrid managed to register just 9 shots and just 3 on target. Both teams showed discipline, with only one yellow card for Liverpool and two for Atletico Madrid, during the dying minutes of the game Atletico boss Diego Simeone received a direct red card due to a heated engagement with a Liverpool fan.
The contest kept fans on the edge until the final whistle, as Liverpool's attack was enough to survive Atletico's scare. The result gives Liverpool three crucial points, giving them a strong start in their campaign.
With Anfield roaring and both teams showcasing quality football, this clash will be remembered as one of the group stage’s early highlights. Liverpool, buoyed by the win, will look to carry forward this momentum, while Atlético Madrid will seek a course correction in their next matches.